Mumbai Man Faces Legal Action for Feeding Pigeons on Car Roof

In a recent incident in Mumbai’s Dadar area, a 57-year-old man was charged by the Shivaji Park police for illegally feeding pigeons, violating a Bombay High Court order, as reported. The man, identified as Ashok Vora, was observed placing a tray filled with grains on the roof of his car to feed the birds, an action that contravenes a court directive aimed at controlling pigeon populations due to health and environmental concerns.

The incident came to light when local residents reported the activity to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), which has been actively enforcing the court’s ruling. The BMC, tasked with maintaining public health and urban cleanliness, promptly informed the police. Officers from the Shivaji Park station responded by registering a case against Vora under section 351(2) of the Indian Penal Code for alleged criminal breach of trust, along with relevant sections of the Maharashtra Police Act. Additionally, the police seized Vora’s vehicle, which was used as a platform for the feeding activity, to prevent further violations.

The Bombay High Court’s order stems from ongoing concerns about the adverse effects of pigeon feeding in urban areas, including the spread of diseases and damage to public spaces. The court has mandated strict measures to curb such activities, and the BMC has been directed to monitor and address violations. This incident marks a continuation of the civic body’s efforts to enforce the ban, particularly in areas like Dadar, where pigeon feeding has been a persistent issue.

A senior police official from the Shivaji Park station confirmed the seizure of the car and stated that further investigations are underway to ensure compliance with the court’s directive. The case highlights the challenges faced by authorities in balancing community practices with public health mandates in densely populated urban centers like Mumbai.