Clash at Dadar: Protesters Defy Court's Kabutarkhana Ban

Protesters, mainly from the Jain community, removed coverings from a kabutarkhana in Mumbai despite a court mandate. The high court ordered closures over health risks from pigeons. Cultural concerns clash with public health interests as authorities advocate controlled feeding to balance both parties' concerns.

On Wednesday, protesters in Mumbai defied a Bombay High Court order by removing tarpaulins from a kabutarkhana in Dadar. The confrontation, primarily involving the Jain community who view feeding pigeons as sacred, ended in clashes with police.

Mumbai's suburban district guardian minister, Mangal Prabhat Lodha, condemned the incident and assured that appropriate legal action would follow. Meanwhile, Maharashtra's Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar pushed for 'controlled feeding' to respect tradition while safeguarding public health from risks associated with pigeon droppings.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis led a meeting to address the situation. Officials discussed containing pigeon feeding to minimize health hazards and instructed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation on necessary precautions. Debates continue over cultural customs versus public health priorities.