Bajrang Punia Suspended for Refusing Doping Test Due to Expired Kits
New Delhi [India], June 23: The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) has suspended Olympic medalist wrestler Bajrang Punia for violating anti-doping rules. Bajrang’s lawyer, Vidushpat Singhania, confirmed the suspension on Sunday.
Reason for Suspension
NADA stated that Bajrang refused to provide his urine sample because he believed the kits used by NADA were expired. Despite warnings from the Doping Control Officer (DCO) about the consequences, Bajrang did not comply.
NADA’s Statement
NADA explained that the DCO had informed Bajrang about the need to provide a urine sample for dope analysis. Bajrang refused, demanding a response from NADA regarding the expired kits. The DCO warned him about the consequences under the NADR, 2021, but Bajrang still did not submit his sample.
Time to Respond
Bajrang has until July 11 to respond to the notice. He can admit the violations, waive a hearing, and accept the proposed consequences by signing and returning the acceptance form.
Possible Consequences
If the violations are upheld, Bajrang could face disqualification of results, forfeiture of medals, points, and prizes, and a period of ineligibility of up to four years. The sanctions will be binding on NADA, the Wrestling Federation of India, and all signatories to the World Anti-Doping Code.
Previous Suspension
Bajrang was provisionally suspended by NADA on April 23 for allegedly refusing to provide a urine sample after his bout at the selection trials for the Paris Olympics qualification tournament in Sonepat on March 10. The United World Wrestling (UWW) also imposed a provisional ban on him until December 31, 2024.
Bajrang’s Defense
Bajrang took to social media to clarify that he never refused to give his sample. He stated that he reminded the officials about the expired kits used in previous tests and demanded an explanation. He claimed that the officials did not provide proof of carrying proper equipment and left the venue, claiming he had refused to give samples.
Bajrang explained that he stayed at the venue for an hour after the officials approached him and that the DCO should have accompanied him until he submitted his medical report. He emphasized his moral obligation to raise his voice against the use of expired kits for testing.
