NADA Imposes Four-Year Suspension on Bajrang Punia for Doping Code Violation

The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) has imposed a four-year suspension on Bajrang Punia. This decision follows his refusal to submit a sample for a doping test on March 10 during national team selection trials. Initially, NADA suspended the Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist on April 23, which was later supported by the World Governing body, UWW.

Bajrang contested the provisional suspension, leading to its revocation by NADA’s Anti-Disciplinary Doping Panel (ADDP) on May 31. This revocation lasted until NADA issued a formal notice of charge on June 23. Bajrang, who joined Congress alongside Vinesh Phogat and took charge of All India Kisan Congress, challenged the charge in writing on July 11.

Suspension Details and Hearing Outcomes

Hearings regarding Bajrang's case were conducted on September 20 and October 4. The ADDP concluded that Bajrang is subject to sanctions under Article 10.3.1, resulting in a four-year ineligibility period. The suspension prevents him from competing in wrestling or seeking coaching positions abroad if desired.

The panel stated that since Bajrang was provisionally suspended, his four-year ineligibility would begin from April 23, 2024. The period from May 31, 2024, to June 21, 2024, when the provisional suspension was lifted, will not count towards the total ineligibility duration.

Allegations and Athlete's Defence

Bajrang has consistently claimed unfair treatment in doping control due to his protest against former WFI President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. He argued he never refused to provide a sample but sought clarification from NADA about expired kits used for sample collection in December 2023.

NADA explained its actions by stating that the Chaperone/DCO had informed Bajrang about the need to provide a urine sample for analysis. Bajrang's written submission highlighted mistrust due to NADA's previous conduct and lack of accountability in handling doping control processes.

NADA's Standpoint

Bajrang insisted he was willing to give a sample once NADA addressed concerns about expired kits. However, NADA maintained that his refusal was intentional and showed disregard for responsibilities outlined in Articles 20.1 & 20.2 of the Anti-Doping Rules, 2021.

The agency emphasised that Bajrang's actions were deliberate and demonstrated a lack of respect for his duties as an athlete under the anti-doping regulations.

This suspension marks a significant moment in Bajrang's career, affecting his future prospects in competitive wrestling and potential coaching roles internationally.