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Soon in SGNP: Specially Designed Centres Where Visitors Can Safely Feed Pigeons
- by Webdesk
- 12 Aug 2025
Source: Hindustan Times
Mumbai: In the midst of the ongoing controversy surrounding the feeding of pigeons at the well-known Kabutarkhana, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that the state government is open to the idea of creating designated pigeon feeding centres in isolated locations such as the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP).
On Monday, the Supreme Court, choosing not to interfere with the Bombay High Court’s earlier ruling, instructed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to take strict action. The apex court directed the civic body to register FIRs against individuals caught feeding pigeons illegally and to ensure the closure of the Kabutarkhana in Dadar.
Responding to the Supreme Court’s directive, Chief Minister Fadnavis said that the government will fully comply with the legal orders. At the same time, he acknowledged the sentimental value attached to the tradition of feeding pigeons for certain communities. “We respect the court’s decision and will follow it without exception. However, considering the emotional and religious connection people have with this practice, we are exploring the possibility of setting up specific areas for feeding pigeons in deserted zones like SGNP. Such centres will be established in full compliance with forest and wildlife laws,” he explained.
Meanwhile, the issue took a sharp political and religious turn following controversial remarks made by Jain monk Muni Nileshchandra Vijay. Speaking on Sunday, the monk declared that if the ban on feeding pigeons continues, the Jain community would launch a satyagraha and hunger strike starting August 13. He further added, “The Jain community is peaceful by nature, but if required, we will take up arms to protect our religion. If any ruling goes against our beliefs, we will not accept it — not even a decision from the court.”
These comments sparked strong reactions from political leaders, particularly from the Shiv Sena (UBT). Former Mumbai Mayor Kishori Pednekar questioned the monk’s stance, asking pointedly whether pigeons could be considered the private property of the Jain community. She criticised the remarks as lacking social maturity and said, “Though they refer to themselves as Muni, these Jain monks are young and often make such irresponsible statements. The courts imposed the ban on Kabutarkhana after scientific evidence proved that pigeons pose significant health hazards to humans.”
Adding another dimension to the debate, senior BJP leader and Maharashtra’s Skill Development Minister Mangalprabhat Lodha, who is himself associated with the Jain community, distanced himself from the monk’s controversial statement. Lodha stated, “I do not agree with what he said. I have already spoken twice on this matter and have been fulfilling my responsibilities towards finding a balanced solution. Beyond that, I do not wish to comment.”
The Kabutarkhana controversy has been simmering for years, with environmentalists and health experts warning about the harmful effects of large-scale pigeon feeding, including respiratory diseases linked to pigeon droppings. On the other hand, for some communities, feeding pigeons is deeply rooted in religious and cultural traditions.
As the debate continues, the state government’s proposal to create controlled pigeon feeding zones in secluded areas like SGNP might emerge as a middle ground — attempting to respect public health concerns while accommodating long-standing sentiments. Whether this plan will gain acceptance among all parties involved remains to be seen.
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