Feeding Pigeons Costs Dear: 71-Year-Old Indian-Origin Woman Fined Over ₹2 Lakh in Singapore
Feeding Pigeons Costs Dear: 71-Year-Old Indian-Origin Woman Fined Over ₹2 Lakh in Singapore
The repeat offence, captured on video, has reignited debate over strict wildlife laws and public hygiene concerns in the city-state.
A 71-year-old Indian-origin woman in Singapore has been fined S$3,200 (roughly Rs 2.26 lakh) after repeatedly feeding wild pigeons, despite earlier warnings and penalties.
The woman, identified as Sanmugamnathan Shamla, pleaded guilty to four charges under Singapore’s Wildlife Act. Prosecutors told the court that she fed pigeons on nine separate occasions over a six-month period, between July 2025 and January 2026.
The case drew attention after video evidence was presented in court. Footage reportedly showed Shamla surrounded by large flocks of pigeons near her flat in Toa Payoh, one of Singapore’s oldest housing estates.
Authorities said this was not her first violation. In May last year, she had already been fined S$1,200 for feeding wild birds and for interfering with a bird-trapping exercise. At that time, she reportedly promised the court she would not repeat the behaviour. However, prosecutors noted that she returned to feeding pigeons within a month.
The prosecutor described her actions as a “persistent disregard for the law”, arguing that a significant fine was necessary as a deterrent.
The court also heard that Shamla had even approached her Member of Parliament to express regret, but was caught feeding birds again just three days later.
Shamla, who appeared in court without a lawyer, reportedly requested a lower fine, saying she was unemployed and had no medical insurance. She also offered to make up the balance through community service.
However, the judge imposed the S$3,200 fine. After the ruling, she stated she would pay the full amount immediately and promised not to repeat the offence.
Under Singapore law, repeat offenders can face fines of up to S$10,000 for each charge. The strict enforcement is often linked to concerns about public hygiene, pest control, and the growing nuisance caused by large pigeon populations in residential areas.
