Feathers Fly as Mumbai's Pigeon Feeders Launch Political Party for BMC Polls

In a unique twist to Mumbai's bustling political landscape, the city's dedicated pigeon feeders, long accustomed to battling civic authorities and disgruntled residents, are now taking their fight directly to the ballot box. Frustrated by persistent harassment and the perceived erosion of their right to care for urban birds, these passionate individuals have officially announced the formation of a political party, the 'Kabutar Khaan Bachao Sangharsh Samiti' (KKBS), with a firm resolve to contest the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections.

For decades, the simple act of feeding pigeons in Mumbai's public spaces has been a cherished tradition for many, deeply rooted in compassion and cultural practices, particularly among Jain and Marwari communities.

However, this act of kindness has increasingly become a flashpoint, with authorities and residents raising concerns about hygiene, public health, and general nuisance. Bird droppings, the potential spread of diseases like psittacosis (pigeon fever) and the lingering fear of avian influenza have fueled a strong backlash against pigeon feeding, leading to fines, warnings, and constant pressure on feeders.

Leading this feathered foray into politics is Anand Varma, a veteran pigeon feeder who has dedicated over 30 years to this cause.

"We are constantly harassed by the BMC and police," Varma states, articulating the collective frustration of his community. "We have been feeding pigeons for generations, but now we are being treated like criminals. Our only aim is to protect our kabutar khaans (pigeon feeding spaces) and ensure our birds can thrive without constant threats." The KKBS aims to champion the cause of these urban birds and their caretakers, demanding designated feeding zones and an end to what they call unjust persecution.

The newly formed party plans to strategically field candidates in wards across Mumbai known for having significant pigeon populations and a strong base of feeders.

Their agenda is clear: to advocate for policies that acknowledge the cultural significance of pigeon feeding, implement humane management strategies for bird populations, and protect the rights of feeders. They envision a city where compassion for animals coexists harmoniously with urban living, rather than being seen as a conflict.

While the Bombay High Court, in a 2012 directive, refrained from imposing a blanket ban on pigeon feeding, it did instruct the BMC to ensure proper hygiene and prevent littering.

This has, however, led to the BMC issuing fines for those found leaving food scraps or creating unsanitary conditions. The KKBS argues that these measures often target compassionate individuals indiscriminately, overlooking the spiritual and emotional solace that feeding pigeons provides to many.

The entry of the Kabutar Khaan Bachao Sangharsh Samiti into Mumbai's political arena highlights a fascinating intersection of animal welfare, urban development, cultural tradition, and civic governance.

As the city gears up for its municipal elections, all eyes will be on how this unique party, driven by the flight of pigeons, navigates the complexities of local politics, hoping to carve out a permanent, respected space for their beloved birds and their enduring practice.