India, Aug. 30 -- Friday, the last day to respond to the BMC's call for feedback on pigeon feeding in the city, ended in a tug-of-war between citizens motivated by health concerns and those on the side of religion/animal activism. It is now up to the government-appointed committee to take a decision.

"What many perceive as religious activity is a serious public health hazard that the city can no longer afford to ignore," argued civic activist Dhaval Shah. In response, a change.org petition with over 600 signatures, responded, "Yes, health concerns must be respected, but the answer cannot be cruelty or bans. The answer must be balance, regulated spaces, cleanliness, and compassion."

The anti-pigeon feeding votaries submitted a load of ev...