India reiterates commitment to WADA code

New Delhi, Sep 19 (ANI): The Union Government said on Saturday that it is committed to the global anti-doping laws and fully accepts the World Anti Doping Agency's (WADA) new code, including the contentious whereabouts clause.

Director General of the National Anti Doping Authority (NADA) Rahul Bhatnagar said: "NADA has fully accepted WADA Code which has been approved by the Government of India. NADA and Government of India have also accepted the 'whereabouts' clause of WADA.

The Board of Cricket Control in India (BCCI) has rejected the whereabout clause of the WADA code.

The Indian Government's reaction came following the WADA chief John Fahey's remarks asking New Delhi to come clear on its stand on where about clause.

Bhatnagar said: "We have informed WADA that there is no change in the position of Government of India in so far as implementation of anti-doping rules adopted by NADA."

"India's stand now and before has been the same. There is no compromise when it comes to doping in sport," Bhatnagar reiterated.

He said the BCCI has not yet responded to Sports Ministry's letter on seeking guidance on its stand on where about clause.

Bhatnagar assured that the Sports Ministry would adopt all steps to get rid of doping menace in sporting arena.

"As far as anti-doping in sport is concerned, Government of India and NADA will take all possible means to eradicate the menace from sports and we are ready to take the lead in this regard among other nations in the world," he said. (ANI)