A heated controversy has erupted in Mumbai over the closure of ‘kabutarkhanas,’ traditional pigeon feeding sites, following a Bombay High Court ruling on July 30 that declared feeding large gatherings of pigeons a public nuisance and health hazard. The court’s directive prompted the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to crack down on these sites, but the move has ignited protests and political debate, especially with civic polls looming.

The state government, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, initially ordered the shutdown of kabutarkhanas across Mumbai, citing health concerns like respiratory issues caused by pigeon waste and feathers. The BMC acted swiftly, fining 142 individuals a total of Rs 68,700 between July 13 and August 3 for feeding pigeons at these spots. The iconic Dadar Kabutarkhana, a grade II heritage structure and a popular feeding site, was covered with a tarpaulin sheet on August 3 to block access, escalating tensions.

However, Fadnavis recently backtracked, calling the abrupt closures “not advisable” and urging the BMC to implement “controlled feeding” of pigeons instead. This shift came after public outcry and protests, particularly from members of the Jain community, who view feeding pigeons as an act of compassion. On Wednesday, protesters forcibly removed the tarpaulin at Dadar Kabutarkhana, clashing with police who attempted to intervene. Mumbai’s suburban district guardian minister, Mangal Prabhat Lodha, condemned the protest, assuring that police would take appropriate action.

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The issue first gained traction in the Maharashtra legislative council on July 3, when Shiv Sena leader Manisha Kayande highlighted the health risks posed by kabutarkhanas. BJP leader Chitra Wagh supported the claim, sharing a personal loss—her aunt’s death due to respiratory issues linked to pigeon waste. Industries Minister Uday Samant, responding on behalf of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, confirmed that Mumbai has 51 kabutarkhanas and promised an awareness campaign alongside their closure. Shinde later noted that unauthorized feeding sites in Santacruz (East), Daulat Nagar, and Santacruz (West) had already been shut down.

The BMC’s actions, including covering heritage sites and issuing fines, have sparked accusations of heavy-handedness. Protesters argue that kabutarkhanas are cultural landmarks, and abrupt bans disregard community sentiments. With the BMC polls approaching, the controversy has become a political flashpoint, with the ruling coalition facing pressure to balance public health concerns with cultural sensitivities. The state government now faces the challenge of devising a solution that addresses health risks while respecting traditions, as Mumbai’s residents await clarity on the future of these iconic feeding sites.

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