Mumbai’s recent decision to regulate pigeon-feeding has ignited controversy, particularly among the Jain community. The city’s new rules, aimed at reducing the spread of diseases and managing public spaces, have led to clashes with law enforcement and expressions of disapproval from religious leaders. The Jain faith, which emphasizes nonviolence (ahimsa), views the closure of kabutarkhanas as an affront to their practices and values.
The closures of dozens of feeding spots have caused discomfort among members of the Jain community, who argue that these traditions are deeply rooted in their culture. Some leaders have reportedly threatened hunger strikes to protest the restrictions, highlighting the broader tension between urban development and religious customs. The situation has drawn attention to how local governance navigates the intersection of public health, religious practices, and community rights.