First Ever Fine Imposed for Feeding Pigeons in Public Spaces in India

For the first time in India, a person has been fined for feeding pigeons in a public space. This unprecedented case saw a 52-year-old businessman from Dadar being penalized by a Metropolitan Magistrate court in Bandra. In July, the Bombay High Court had imposed a ban on feeding pigeons in open spaces, and despite this, the businessman continued to feed pigeons.

The court stated that feeding pigeons in public not only violates government orders but also poses a significant public health risk. On December 22, Bandra’s 9th Court's Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate, V.Y. Misal, found Nitin Shet, a resident of Dadar, guilty under sections 223(k) and 271 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) 2023. These sections pertain to disobeying a lawful order of a public servant and committing acts likely to spread diseases harmful to human life.

Penalty for Violating Court Orders

The court imposed a fine of ₹3,000 and ₹2,000 on Shet for violating the legal provisions related to public health. On August 1, 2025, Bombay Police had caught Shet feeding pigeons near the pigeon loft located near Hinduja Hospital on JLJ Road, and a case was registered against him. The police reported that this act posed a danger to human health and safety and could contribute to the spread of diseases.

After a month, Shet admitted his offense in court following the police charge sheet. The magistrate noted that the act had endangered human life, health, and safety, violating government orders, making it a punishable offense. The court also remarked that Shet had committed the act knowingly and with negligence.

Health Risks from Feeding Pigeons

Public health advocates and bird lovers have expressed differing opinions regarding this ruling. Feeding pigeons in public is associated with several health risks. Pigeon droppings and feathers pose potential risks for various diseases. Studies suggest that pigeon droppings contain bacteria that could cause respiratory or lung diseases.

Research indicates that bacteria found in pigeon droppings can spread diseases like Histoplasmosis, Salmonella, Cryptococcosis, and E. Coli, potentially leading to conditions such as pneumonia, lung inflammation (Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis), and liver or stomach ailments from E. coli. This is why many cities have imposed bans on feeding pigeons in public spaces.