Feeding pigeons is now a punishable offence in Mumbai: Here’s why

Mumbai: The Bombay High Court on Wednesday directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to file FIRs against individuals who continue feeding pigeons at kabutarkhanas despite a civic ban and no interim relief from the court.

A bench of Justices Girish Kulkarni and Arif Doctor said the issue touches “the collective fundamental rights of citizens to health, life, and livelihood.”

The court came down heavily on the BMC for failing to implement the ban effectively. It criticised the civic body for relying on media reports rather than acting on earlier orders and warned of serious health risks, especially during the monsoon. Photographs submitted showed large flocks of pigeons, scattered feathers, and pedestrians shielding themselves from the foul stench.

Despite the BMC covering some feeding zones, the court noted that “some persons mischievously and certainly illegally have continued to feed foodgrains to the pigeons.” It also took note of municipal officers being obstructed in their duties and allowed the BMC to file FIRs under the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), citing sections related to spreading diseases and endangering lives.

To ensure enforcement, the court ordered deployment of police, CCTV installation, and beat marshals to prevent feeding from windows and public areas. The next compliance hearing is scheduled for August 7.

The matter relates to petitions filed by animal lovers Pallavi Patil, Sneha Visaria, and Savita Mahajan, who had challenged the demolition of kabutarkhanas. While the court stayed further demolitions earlier, it made clear that the ban on feeding remains enforceable.