Meanwhile, Maneka worries about mules

Though the letter does not mention any reason behind the queries, Maneka is not happy with the state of the poor mules. She told The Indian Express they had been raising the issue for the past four years with Governor Girish Chandra, who is also the head of the shrine board. ‘‘The head tells us everytime that action would be taken, but things are getting from bad to worse.’’ she said. ‘‘Studies have shown that a large number of mules have died due to the strain.’’ The animals are generally made to trek 52 km and more everyday on the hilly track, without rest, by contractors. Nearly 3,000-4,000 mules are currently registered with the shrine board.