Let's Be The Voice For The Mute Beings - Sristi Chowdhury

"During Lockdown, I decided to feed the street dogs because their resources were completely blocked at that time. I had always had a soft corner for them, but I couldn't do anything actively because of my hectic schedule. 

I used to feed around 60 dogs, every single day. The little that I offered them, made them excited.  At this point, the restrictions were too harsh and I was obliged to follow them. I used to wake up at 5 am everyday, so that I could get back home before the police started patrolling. They caught me a time or two and asked me why I was out, but, eventually, they realized that I had to feed the dogs, no matter what.

The feeding session exposed me to their world of problems, which really had no solution, unless we, humans, decided to do something about it. I volunteered with some dog shelters and realized the bitter process that these animals have to go through. 

I filed two cases for animal abuse and even the system, doesn't stand with them. I worked with paralyzed dogs and saw them struggle for 1 year, before they finally gave in. They didn't even have the luxury to die. I also witnessed people hitting dogs with their vehicles without caring to look back. Moreover, I also encountered cases where "humans" had attempted rape on female dogs. Seeing all this, I am registering a trust called, Hope, after a dog who bravely fought for her life for 1.5 months. 

Now, when I take out my scooty to travel somewhere, all those munchkins of mine would follow me around. It makes them happy, but I get scared about them getting into an accident. Just for one meal a day, they are eternally grateful to me.  

All I ask of my fellow humans, is to be a human. Stoning a dog is not normal, ignoring an injured dog on the road is also abnormal. In my packed life, I am able to take up my responsibility towards them. Giving biscuits to Labradors and German Shepherds doesn't make you great, unless you do your bit for the ones who really need your help! - Sristi Chowdhury.