Mumbai, a city known for its vibrant street life and deep-rooted traditions, is witnessing a shift in how it perceives a common sight: the feeding of pigeons. What was once considered a harmless act of kindness, or even a religious practice, has now been deemed a punishable offense. The Bombay High Court has taken a firm stance, ruling that encouraging large gatherings of pigeons by feeding them constitutes a public nuisance and a significant health hazard. This decision empowers the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to take strict action against those who violate the no-feeding order, including filing First Information Reports (FIRs).
The court's ruling, delivered by Justices G.S. Kulkarni and Arif Doctor, came during a hearing on a petition filed by animal welfare activists who challenged the BMC's demolition of designated pigeon feeding areas, known as 'kabutarkhanas'. While the court had initially paused the demolition recognizing the historical value of these structures, it explicitly prohibited the continuation of pigeon feeding at these sites. Reports of people defying these orders and even obstructing municipal workers led the court to express serious concern. The court emphasized that such actions demonstrate "outright defiance of the law".
The core of the issue lies in the public health implications associated with pigeon feeding. Pigeon droppings and the dense flocks that congregate at feeding sites have been linked to respiratory and airborne diseases. Exposure to pigeon droppings and feathers can trigger asthma and other illnesses, such as hypersensitivity pneumonitis, posing a particular risk to the elderly and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. A medical report submitted to the court highlighted the potential for lung damage and acute breathlessness resulting from such exposure. The court made it clear that the health of citizens cannot be compromised for emotional or religious reasons.
The BMC has been directed to register complaints against violators, underscoring the seriousness of the issue. The government has already instructed the BMC to shut down pigeon coops across Mumbai, further highlighting the health risks associated with pigeon droppings and feathers. The BMC is also launching a month-long awareness campaign to educate people about the health risks of feeding pigeons. Fines ranging from ₹100 to ₹500 are already in place for feeding pigeons in non-designated areas.
This ban isn't simply about cleanliness; it's about safeguarding public health. The decision reflects a growing awareness of the potential dangers associated with large pigeon populations in urban environments. While feeding pigeons may seem like a benevolent act, the consequences can be detrimental to the health and well-being of the community.
