A letter from S.K. Verma, Deputy Secretary, Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, to S.K. Sandhu, District Collector, Ludhiana, on November 17, 2000, reads :

"It is learnt that bullock-cart races are being conducted in various villages in the District of Ludhiana. As you are aware that the very practice of bullock-cart racing itself is not to be encouraged in view of the cruelty inflicted on the animals. In addition, it has been reported that cruel practices are being adopted by bullock-cart owners to win the race, such as use of chilli powder, severe beating and goading, etc.