📷 Image Credits: The Indian Express
The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) has suspended Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia for the second time, following an ongoing issue regarding a refusal to provide a urine sample for a dope test. This decision comes after the ADDP panel had previously revoked his suspension due to a lack of a ‘notice of charge’ being issued to Punia. The initial suspension was on April 23, during which Punia declined to provide his urine sample during the selection trials in Sonepat on March 10. This led to suspensions not only from NADA but also from the United Wrestling World (UWW), the sport’s global governing body.
Punia had appealed against the provisional suspension, and on May 31, the ADDP revoked it until NADA issued the formal ‘notice of charge,’ which was completed on Sunday. The notice cites a violation of Article 2.3 of the National Anti-Doping Rules, 2021, and a provisional suspension has been implemented. Punia now has until July 11 to either request a hearing or accept the charges.
NADA’s communication to Punia detailed the events leading up to the suspension, stating that despite numerous requests, Punia refused to provide his urine sample, insisting on a response to his email questioning the use of expired kits for sample collection. The agency clarifies that failure to comply with the Anti-Doping Rules could result in disqualification of previous results, potential penalties, and the forfeiture of any medals, points, or prizes won during the period of the rule violation. The financial costs associated with the violation may also be recovered.
Punia’s lawyer, Vidhushpat Singhania, has confirmed that they intend to challenge the suspension, emphasizing Punia’s stance that he did not outright refuse to provide the sample but was seeking clarification on the testing process. The wrestler’s ability to challenge the ruling until July 11 provides a window for further legal proceedings and deliberations around the case. This ongoing saga showcases the complexities surrounding anti-doping protocols in sports and the importance of adherence to regulations to maintain the integrity of competition.
