Mumbai Police Registers First FIR For Feeding Pigeons Under New Criminal Law

In a landmark enforcement move, Mumbai Police have registered the city’s first-ever criminal case for feeding pigeons in public, now a punishable offence under the recently introduced Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The FIR was lodged at Mahim Police Station against unidentified individuals who scattered grains for pigeons near the kabutarkhana on LJ Road, close to Hinduja Hospital and Domino’s Pizza.

FIR Based on High Court Order

This action follows a strict directive from the Bombay High Court issued on July 31, which instructed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to initiate criminal proceedings against anyone flouting its ban on feeding pigeons at public and heritage spots. The court underscored serious public health concerns, particularly respiratory illnesses and environmental degradation, caused by unchecked pigeon gatherings.

Offenders Yet to Be Identified

Police officials reported that the accused arrived at the site around 6:50 a.m. on a two-wheeler and left after feeding the pigeons. However, due to an unclear number plate, their identities remain unknown. CCTV footage from the area is currently being reviewed to trace the suspects.

The FIR has been filed under:

Section 223 (disobedience to a public servant’s order)

Section 270 (malignant act likely to spread infection)

Section 271 (negligent act violating quarantine rules)

These are part of the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which recently replaced the Indian Penal Code.

Judges Slam Continued Violations

Justices Girish Kulkarni and Arif Doctor expressed strong displeasure over the ongoing violations of the court’s earlier rulings. The bench had previously denied interim relief to pigeon feeders and, during the recent hearing, stated, “If they don’t want to follow the rule of law, then the law should catch up with them.”

The court emphasised that pigeon feeding in public places creates a public nuisance and poses a direct threat to human life.

BMC Intensifies Enforcement Measures

In compliance with the court’s order, the BMC has stepped up enforcement. At Dadar West’s iconic kabutarkhana, unauthorised feeding zones and structures have been cleared. Going forward, officers will be deployed in three shifts, supported by beat marshals and police, to monitor compliance. Installation of CCTV cameras in sensitive areas has also been mandated.

Animal Activists Protest Citywide Ban

The crackdown hasn’t gone unchallenged. Several animal welfare organisations have criticised the move, arguing that the ban infringes on Article 51A(g) of the Constitution—which encourages compassion for living creatures—as well as the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.

Earlier this month, over 500 activists staged a protest in Santacruz, demanding the rollback of the civic directive.

Next Hearing on August 7

The High Court has scheduled the next compliance hearing for August 7, where it will review:

Medical evidence from KEM Hospital

Enforcement updates from the BMC

Progress reports from Mumbai Police

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