Olympic bronze medal-winning wrestler Bajrang Punia has been handed a four-year ban for avoiding a doping test. Punia, who was at the forefront of protests against former wrestling body chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, maintains his innocence and denies refusing testing. The ban comes after Punia was provisionally suspended for allegedly not providing a urine sample to anti-doping officials in March. Despite contesting the charges and having the suspension initially lifted, Punia has now been banned as confirmed by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA).
The protests led by Punia and other top wrestlers in New Delhi against Singh were over allegations of misconduct involving female athletes. Singh denied the allegations, claiming they were part of a conspiracy to oust him from parliament. Punia believes the ban is a form of revenge from Singh following their protests.
It is worth noting that wrestling commands a significant following in rural northern India, with Punia and fellow wrestler Vinesh Phogat garnering public support for their actions. Both Punia and Phogat have since joined the opposition Congress Party.
India has faced scrutiny for its doping violations, with the World Anti-Doping Agency reporting the highest number of positive results in 2022. Despite countries like China, the United States, and Russia testing more athletes, India stood out with over 100 violations. This ban on Punia adds to the country’s doping woes as it continues to fight against drug cheats in sports.
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