Dadar Kabutarkhana Closure Sparks Protests; Jain Monk Threatens Hunger Strike

Mumbai is witnessing an intensifying controversy after the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) enforced a ban on feeding pigeons at the historic Dadar Kabutarkhana and several other spots across the city. The decision has angered the Jain community, who consider the act of feeding pigeons an important religious obligation. Prominent Jain monk Muni Nileshchandra Vijay announced that he would begin an indefinite hunger strike from 13th August if the authorities do not withdraw the ban or provide a meaningful solution.

Jain Monk Takes Centre Stage

Muni Nileshchandra Vijay has become the most vocal critic of the BMC’s move. He argues that the policy does not just threaten a longstanding religious practice, but also ignores the Jain principle that no living being should suffer from hunger. “Kabutarkhanas are a symbol of compassion, and their closure hurts our soul,” he said. He also questioned whether the ban was politically motivated, given the timing before local elections.

According to Jain leaders, more than ten lakh members from the community across India have pledged support for the monk and the call to protest. For many Jains, feeding pigeons is not simply a choice but a moral duty, and they see the municipal crackdown as a direct challenge to their right to practise their faith.

The situation at Dadar Kabutarkhana escalated recently when a large group of demonstrators removed tarpaulin covers that the BMC had placed to prevent birds from gathering. Police intervened as clashes threatened to spiral out of control. The BMC has imposed fines on several citizens who defied the ban and continued to feed pigeons. Over the last few weeks, officials have shut down more than 50 traditional pigeon feeding sites across Mumbai, arguing that the droppings pose a serious health hazard and cause damage to nearby heritage buildings.

Political Leaders Urge Restraint

The row has forced many political leaders to take a public stand. Maharashtra Skill Development Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha called the recent protests “unfortunate” and asked everyone to remain calm. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has urged the civic administration not to enforce knee-jerk closures. He suggested that the authorities consider regulated, time-bound feeding of pigeons so both health and religious sensitivities can be addressed. “We must find a balanced solution that respects tradition but also protects people’s safety,” he told reporters.

BMC and Courts Stick to Their Stand

Despite the outcry, the BMC has refused to back down. Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani said the government might allow restricted feeding during fixed hours at selected spots. However, reopening all kabutarkhanas is not on the agenda for now, he clarified. The Bombay High Court also upheld the BMC’s stance, warning that violators will face criminal charges. Doctors have added that pigeon droppings can cause respiratory infections and other diseases, supporting the civic body’s argument for stricter regulation.

As the August 13 deadline approaches, both sides are preparing for the next round of protests and negotiations. The state government now faces the tough task of balancing faith with public safety in a densely populated city. Many ordinary Mumbaikars are watching closely, worried that a prolonged confrontation will disrupt daily life. Leaders from across communities have called for dialogue, hoping that officials can find a practical solution.

The outcome of this stand-off will decide not only the fate of kabutarkhanas in Mumbai but also set a precedent for how religious traditions fit within modern urban life.

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