Bajrang Punia: 'Utter Disregard Towards His Duties…,' Says NADA! Olympics Medallist Banned For 4 Years

Bajrang Punia: Indian wrestling icon and Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist Bajrang Punia has been dealt a major blow. The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) has banned him from competitive wrestling for four years, citing a refusal to provide a urine sample during national selection trials on March 10, 2024. This suspension is a significant setback for the wrestler, known for bringing glory to India on the global stage. Let’s delve into the details surrounding the decision, Bajrang’s defense, and what this means for his future.

NADA’s Four-Year Ban on Bajrang Punia

The doping violation dates back to March, but Bajrang’s provisional suspension began on April 23, 2024, as per NADA’s notification. The Anti-Disciplinary Doping Panel (ADDP) emphasised that Bajrang had shown “utter disregard” for his duties under anti-doping rules, thus justifying the ban.

Interestingly, a brief period between May 31 and June 21, 2024, when the provisional suspension was temporarily lifted, will not count toward the four-year ineligibility. This decision effectively bars Bajrang from returning to competitive wrestling until mid-2028, derailing his plans for future championships and possibly even a coaching career abroad.

Bajrang Punia’s Defense

Bajrang has consistently denied outright refusal to provide the sample, instead highlighting mistrust in NADA’s procedures. His concerns stemmed from a December 2023 incident when expired doping kits were reportedly used for tests. Bajrang had requested clarification on this issue before complying, which he argued was misconstrued as non-cooperation.

Further complicating matters, Bajrang claimed his suspension was politically motivated. He suggested it was a response to his active participation in protests against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president. His appeal, supported by fellow wrestler-turned-politician Vinesh Phogat, contended that the suspension was unfair and retaliatory.

NADA’s Stance

NADA, however, dismissed these allegations, maintaining that the wrestler deliberately refused to comply. According to the agency, Bajrang’s actions undermined the integrity of the anti-doping process. “The refusal was intentional and deliberate,” stated NADA, citing Articles 20.1 and 20.2 of its 2021 Anti-Doping Rules.

The agency also argued that Bajrang’s explanations, including mistrust due to past mishandling of kits, could not excuse his failure to meet anti-doping obligations.