Recently, the western Indian city of Mumbai issued a regulation banning people from feeding pigeons in public places, sparking public debate. On the 13th, when the government shut down a pigeon feeding spot that had been established for decades, hundreds of people gathered to protest at the scene, even clashing with police.
According to the BBC, Kabutarkhana in Mumbai has been a pigeon feeding spot for decades. Unexpectedly, on the 13th, the Indian government moved to close the area, prompting many locals to protest on site. Protesters tore up waterproof sheets at the scene, and some even threatened to go on a hunger strike.
It is understood that, due to concerns that pigeon droppings may affect public health, three cities in India, including Mumbai, have recently announced bans on feeding pigeons. Authorities noted that other countries already have relevant regulations in place; for example, Venice bans feeding pigeons at St. Mark's Square, while New York and London have even stricter regulations for feeding areas.
However, some Indians have a different view. They believe that feeding pigeons has long become part of Indian culture. For example, members of Jainism consider feeding pigeons a devout obligation, and Indian movies often use images of pigeons eating grains as background in cities like Mumbai or Delhi. In addition, these feeding sites also have important historical significance, such as Kabutarkhana, with a history of decades, which was originally a site for grain donations.
Too many pigeons causing ecological imbalance
Nevertheless, experts have pointed out that India’s pigeon problem is already impacting the public. Delhi biologist Hoodasaar noted that with an abundant food supply and a lack of natural predators, pigeons in India are reproducing at an excessive rate. According to statistics, since 2000 the pigeon population has increased by over 150%, and even led to a sharp decline in the numbers of urban sparrows in recent years, creating an ecological imbalance.
Due to widespread protests, the government has currently suspended the dismantling of Kabutarkhana. However, regarding protestors’ demands that the feeding ban be lifted, the Mumbai High Court has rejected the request and issued an order for strict punishment of illegal feeding. Delhi Mayor Singh also stated that the public’s health cannot be sacrificed, and that he will continue to promote the ban.