Dadar Kabutar Khana Row: BJP MLA Mangal Prabhat Lodha Urges BMC To Consider Public Sentiment, Seeks Balanced Solution

Mumbai: Maharashtra Cabinet Minister and BJP MLA Mangal Prabhat Lodha has written a formal letter to the Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM), expressing concern over the recent action against pigeon feeding zones in the city, including the demolition of Kabutar Khanas following a Bombay High Court order.

In his letter, Lodha has appealed to the civic body to consider public sentiment and the emotional and cultural value attached to the practice of feeding pigeons. He urged the administration to take into account the views and concerns of monks (sadhus), animal lovers, and ordinary citizens before taking further action. He stressed the need to find a "golden mean" a balanced solution that safeguards both public health and animal welfare.

Lodha acknowledged the health concerns raised by the Hon’ble Court, particularly regarding respiratory illnesses linked to pigeon droppings. However, he pointed out that the sudden restrictions have resulted in unintended consequences with numerous pigeons reportedly dying of starvation on city roads, creating a fresh public health concern and drawing criticism from animal welfare organizations.

In the letter, Lodha posed several critical questions to the MCGM:

Mangal Prabhat Lodha questioned whether pigeon feeding alone is responsible for the health issues raised by the authorities or if broader factors like environmental pollution play a more significant role.

He also raised concerns over the abrupt halt of a long-standing religious and cultural practice, highlighting that the decision was taken without any dialogue or consultation with stakeholders. Lodha further pointed out the lack of clarity on whether the ban is to remain absolute or if any regulated alternatives for pigeon feeding are being planned.

He also proposed the formation of a committee of experts under the supervision of the Hon’ble Court to conduct a comprehensive study and recommend sustainable, long-term solutions. As a temporary measure, he suggested designating open public spaces like the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC), Mahalaxmi Racecourse, Aarey Colony, or Sanjay Gandhi National Park as supervised zones for pigeon feeding.

Lodha emphasised that the civic administration, while ensuring public health, must also consider the humane aspect of the issue and the sentiments of communities who view animal feeding as an essential part of their faith and values.