The Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) appears to have placed banners all over the city warning people against feeding pigeons due to the high incidence of 'hypersensitive pneumonia' among lung diseases, which the banners say is contracted by proximity to pigeons.

The banners, bearing the TMC's name, also warn of a Rs 500 fine to be levied on people found feeding pigeons. Now, a number of social activists and animal welfare non-profits have spewed outrage and ire against these banners claiming animals are being harassed by people.