Court suggests committee be formed to study issue; Jain community demands that court and civic body find a workable solution; the court also said it had not passed any order directing the closure of kabutarkhanas in the city, but only refrained from staying the closure order of the municipal corporation
The dismantled tarpaulin cover of the Dadar kabutarkhana during the community protests. Pics/Ashish Raje
The Bombay High Court has upheld its decision not to stay the civic body’s ban on feeding pigeons at kabutarkhanas across Mumbai. However, it suggested forming a committee of expert doctors to examine whether the city’s older kabutarkhanas should continue operating, adding that “human life is of paramount importance.”
The court also said it had not passed any order directing the closure of kabutarkhanas in the city, but only refrained from staying the closure order of the municipal corporation.
The tarpaulin cover removed from Dadar kabutarkhana
Members of the Jain community and local residents have now urged the court and BMC to provide a solution that ensures pigeons continue receiving food and water. They argue that either citizens should be allowed to feed the birds, or the BMC must take responsibility for their care.
According to community members, 15–20 pigeons are found dehydrated or injured daily near the Dadar kabutarkhana. The nearby Jain temple is currently offering treatment to these birds.
Police presence at kabutarkhana after civic action sparks protests
Inside the courtroom
The court reviewed a medical report highlighting the serious health risks from exposure to pigeon droppings, including cases that led to lung transplants. The court emphasised that children and senior citizens are particularly vulnerable.
The judges noted that thousands of people pass through these areas daily and asked:
‘What about their health?’
They stressed that the decision to shut down kabutarkhanas was rooted in scientific and medical findings and stated that the ban would remain in effect until the next hearing.
Tarpaulin cover removed from Dadar kabutarkhana. Pics/Ashish Raje
“If the government wishes to oppose this order, it must consider public health,” the court remarked. When local residents requested that pigeon feeding be allowed at least between 6 am and 7 am, the court refused.
“The health of citizens is of utmost importance. No one should violate this order. If there are objections, legal remedies are available,” the bench said firmly.
The court stated, “Thus, with the wisdom of the state government and also the wisdom of the municipal corporation, we are certain that the issues can be resolved by having appropriate medical opinion on whether the municipal corporation has decided to close down the kabootarkhanas in larger public health, is a correct decision.”
Hunger strike threat
Members of the Jain community have warned that if the Dadar kabutarkhana remains shut, they will begin a hunger strike (Anshan) outside the premises.
Officials speak
In a statement to mid-day, BMC said it is waiting for the court order before deciding on the next course of action.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday instructed the BMC to continue supplying grains to kabutarkhanas in a ‘controlled quantity’ until the civic body can come up with a holistic plan to provide alternate options to feeding pigeons at centrally located kabutarkhanas, according to information from the office of the chief minister.
Tuesday
Day CM told the BMC to continue supplying grain
Find a solution!
Shreepal Jain,
“I visit the Jain temple daily from Lower Parel and feed pigeons at Dadar kabutarkhana. We just want the state government to find a solution. Either allow us to feed them or do it themselves. Every day, many pigeons are found injured or dead. If this continues, we will protest peacefully.”
Mitesh Jain
“We’re not satisfied with the Bombay High Court’s decision. We often rescue pigeons entangled in wires with help from the fire brigade, but many still die. If
we’re not allowed to feed them, the BMC must step in. This is their home too. If they do not restart our swami will go on hunger strike.”
Vijay Kothari
“Pigeons are dying without food and water. The government must act. Denying basic sustenance to any living being is inhumane. We hope the authorities realise this.”
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