Clash Over Kabutarkhana: Cultural Tradition vs. Health Concerns in Mumbai

In Mumbai, protesters, largely from the Jain community, dismantled municipal tarpaulins covering kabutarkhanas on Wednesday, defying a high court order to close these pigeon feeding stations due to health hazards.

Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar advocated for controlled feeding, aiming to balance public health concerns with cultural traditions. The debate escalated as the community articulated their discontent over the crackdown on a centuries-old practice.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis conducted a high-level meeting with key officials to explore sustainable solutions, emphasizing cleanliness and organized support for continued feeding until new arrangements are implemented.

(With inputs from agencies.)