Tension at Dadar’s Kabutar Khana as Jain Community Removes Tarpaulin, Protests Against Closure

Mumbai, August 6: Members of the Jain community gathered in large numbers at the iconic Kabutar Khana in Dadar on Tuesday, removing tarpaulin covers and dismantling bamboo structures set up at the site. The protest came in response to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) actions following a Bombay High Court order directing the closure of pigeon-feeding centres across the city due to health concerns.

Jain Community Turns Aggressive Over Tarpaulin Removal

Earlier today, a prayer meeting had been organized by the Jain community near the Dadar Kabutar Khana. While some members initially expressed willingness to comply with court orders, the situation escalated when a group forcefully entered the area, tore down the tarpaulin, and removed bamboo barricades—even before any official BMC action was taken.

Why Was the Kabutar Khana Closed?

Located close to the Dadar railway station, the Kabutar Khana has long been a landmark. However, rising health concerns due to the large pigeon population—particularly respiratory issues caused by droppings and feathers—prompted demands for its removal. Additionally, the location of the structure in the middle of a busy road has contributed to traffic congestion, prompting complaints from local residents.

Bombay High Court’s Directive

The Bombay High Court, in a strong observation, deemed pigeon feeding a “public nuisance” and a potential health hazard to people of all age groups. The court directed the BMC to ban public feeding of pigeons, take strict action against violators, and file FIRs against those continuing to feed pigeons at banned spots. The civic body was also instructed to implement firm measures to control the pigeon population and eliminate the hazards associated with pigeon feeding centres.

Jain Community’s Outrage and Political Response

The decision to close the Kabutar Khana by covering it with tarpaulin led to discontent among the Jain community. Protests and rallies followed, with prominent leaders such as State Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha stepping in to oppose the closure. A high-level meeting was later held at Mantralaya, attended by Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, Forest Minister Ganesh Naik, Minister Girish Mahajan, MLA Kalidas Kolambkar, BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani, and senior officials from the Forest Department.

Following the discussions, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that abruptly shutting down the Kabutar Khana was not appropriate. He assured the community that, if necessary, the matter would be taken to the Supreme Court. He also directed the BMC to implement a “controlled feeding” system at such locations until an alternative arrangement is made.

Health Hazards Linked to Pigeon Feeding

Pigeons are known to spread several zoonotic diseases—that is, diseases transmitted from animals to humans—through their droppings, feathers, and parasites. These include:

• Cryptococcosis
• Histoplasmosis
• Psittacosis (Parrot Fever)
• Salmonellosis
• Avian mite infestation
• Toxoplasmosis

These diseases pose a significant risk to public health, particularly for those with respiratory issues or weakened immune systems.