Pune: The increasing number of pigeons across Pune is now affecting religious practices, with mourners performing Dashakriya—a traditional Hindu funeral ritual—reporting interference from pigeons at riverbank ghats. The ritual of Kaak Sparsh, which involves offering food to crows, is being disrupted as pigeons overwhelm the area, pushing away the crows vital to the ceremony.
BJP spokesperson Sandeep Khardekar has brought the issue to the attention of Pune Municipal Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale, urging the civic body to take immediate steps to address the problem. Khardekar has recommended collaboration with the forest department and bird conservation experts to frame a strategy for managing the unchecked pigeon population.
He pointed out that pigeons have already become a major issue in residential complexes and public spaces across the city, and are now intruding upon spiritually significant locations. “This intrusion is impacting both the religious sanctity and emotional well-being of bereaved families performing last rites,” he said.
Khardekar also expressed concern over the broader ecological impact, noting that unchecked pigeon numbers have contributed to a decline in native bird species like sparrows. He warned that crows, essential to Dashakriya rituals, could soon face a similar fate if action is not taken.
While the Pune Municipal Corporation has begun issuing fines to those feeding pigeons in public, Khardekar believes these efforts are insufficient. He proposed exploring options such as regulated culling—given that pigeons are not a protected species—after thorough consultation with wildlife and environmental authorities.
“Pigeons have become a serious concern in urban spaces and are now affecting culturally significant rituals. Since they are not classified as protected wildlife, measures like culling, under expert supervision, should be considered.”
— Sandeep Khardekar, BJP Spokesperson
The issue has ignited conversations around religious customs, urban biodiversity, and ethical wildlife management. As of now, the municipal authorities have not announced a detailed plan of action.
