High Tensions in Mumbai as Dadar's Pigeon Feeding Spot Sparks Protest

High drama unfolded in Mumbai's bustling Dadar area as angry protesters on Wednesday forcibly removed the tarpaulin set up by the city civic body. This action was in defiance of a Bombay High Court order aimed at shutting down a popular pigeon feeding spot due to health concerns related to pigeon droppings.

The protests, led mainly by members of the Jain community, were met with police resistance as they attempted to remove the coverings at the Dadar Kabutarkhana. Following intervention, guardian minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha visited the site, denouncing the defiance and promising that the police would take action.

In response to the unrest, Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis proposed a "controlled feeding" initiative to mitigate health risks while respecting cultural traditions. Meanwhile, political accusations flew as Congress leaders criticized the BJP for alleged double standards and communal politics.

(With inputs from agencies.)