Mumbai's Crawford Market a home for exotic birds; activists cry foul

Though the BMC has claimed that exotic birds aren't sold inside the Mahatma Phule Market (Crawford Market), a visit here reveals that several species of exotic and non-exotic birds, including lovebirds and the Java sparrow, are being sold openly.

Animal activists say this is not the first time that exotic birds and animals were being sold here. "Exotic birds and those brought in from other countries cannot be sold here unless the shop has licences in place, from the local body to the state animal welfare board," said an activist on condition of anonymity.

Many of the shopkeepers claimed the birds were brought in from other countries. An activist said only three birds — the crow, sparrow and pigeon — can be sold here, since all other birds, including parrot, come under wildlife.

However, he added, breeding takes place for several birds, like the Java sparrow and lovebirds. In such a situation, it's difficult to differentiate between exotic and non-exotic birds. Even the Java sparrows and lovebirds are supposed to be exotic as they were brought in from other countries. According to the activist, these birds can be sold, but there must be a licence from the concerned authority and proper rules have to followed.

Meanwhile, Nidhi Chaudhary, deputy municipal commissioner (special) and in charge of the market, said only non-exotic birds and animals are sold, and the civic body keeps a constant watch.