Pigeon Feeding Controversy: Dadar Kabutarkhana Trust Counters Health Risk Claims with RTI Data, Flags Bombay HC Procedure

Mumbai, Maharahtra: A fierce debate is unfolding in the Bombay High Court over the closure of 'kabutarkhanas' (pigeon feeding areas) in Mumbai, with a recent press note from the Dadar Kabutarkhana Trust challenging the basis for the proposed ban. The note, distributed to media, presents a strong counter-narrative, citing an RTI reply and raising serious procedural questions about the court's recent handling of the matter.

RTI Reply Contradicts Health Risk Narrative

At the heart of the controversy are claims that pigeon droppings pose a significant health risk to the public, particularly in a city as densely populated as Mumbai. However, an RTI reply from B.Y.L. Nair Charitable Hospital & T.N. Medical College to the Trust appears to contradict this assertion. The data, dated July 24, 2025, reveals that of the 24,891 patients who visited the chest OPD in the last year, only eight were diagnosed with Hypersensitive Pneumonitis (HP), and a mere two of these cases were linked to pigeon exposure. Most critically, the RTI states that there were zero deaths attributed to pigeon-related HP.

This factual data stands in stark contrast to an affidavit filed by Dr. Amita U. Athavale of KEM Hospital, which cites generalized global studies linking pigeon exposure to health issues. The press note argues that these studies are not Mumbai-specific and that the local government hospital data, showing no mortality, should be given more weight.

Trust Questions Procedural Fairness in Court Hearing

The Trust also voiced serious concerns about the judicial process itself. An order dated July 24, 2025, from Justices G.S. Kulkarni and Arif S. Doctor, had granted time until August 7, 2025, for all parties to file rejoinders and suggestions. However, the Trust alleges that the matter was abruptly preponed to July 30, 2025, without proper notice. The press note highlights that the court order for the preponed hearing referenced a news article in the Maharashtra Times published on the same day, raising questions about the fairness of the proceedings and the reliance on media reports over judicial records.

Humanitarian Concerns Over Sudden Feeding Ban

The press note also underscores the humanitarian and cultural dimensions of the issue. A sudden ban on pigeon feeding, it warns, would lead to mass starvation and suffering for the lakhs of pigeons that have become dependent on these feeding zones. This, the note argues, would be a violation of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. Furthermore, it points out that pigeon feeding is a deeply ingrained part of many communities' cultural and religious traditions in Mumbai, serving as an act of compassion and charity.

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Instead of a blanket ban, the Trust proposes a balanced and humane approach, drawing on international precedents from cities like London, New York, and Venice. Suggested solutions include designated feeding zones with regulated timings, regular cleaning and sanitization, and public education campaigns on responsible feeding.

Final Appeal to Citizens and Media

The press note concludes with an appeal to the media and citizens to consider all documentary evidence, including the critical RTI data, before making any irreversible decisions. It frames the issue not just as one of public health, but as a matter of compassion, coexistence, and respect for cultural traditions. The public and various stakeholders are now awaiting the court's response to these serious allegations and the scientific evidence presented.