The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) has indefinitely suspended wrestler Bajrang Punia, potentially jeopardizing his participation in the upcoming Paris Olympics. Punia failed to provide a urine sample during selection trials on March 10, prompting NADA to issue the suspension.
According to NADA’s official release, Punia has been provisionally suspended from all competitions and activities pending a hearing on the matter. The suspension stems from Punia’s refusal to provide a sample despite being informed of the consequences.
Punia, a bronze medalist at the Tokyo Olympics, was among several wrestlers who accused former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexual harassment. The suspension comes as a setback for Punia, who was expected to compete in the selection trials later this month.
In the absence of Punia, Sujeet Kalkal will represent India at the World Qualifiers in Istanbul on May 9. The suspension notice was addressed to the WFI’s now-defunct ad hoc committee, rather than the federation recognized by United World Wrestling (UWW).
Punia had previously claimed that he had expired dope-collecting kits, but disregarded the dope control officer’s directive. The DCO’s report states that Punia left the venue despite being informed that his refusal would result in a warning for breaking anti-doping rules.
Punia has been asked to provide a written justification for his refusal by May 7. If he accepts the consequences, the case will be resolved without further disciplinary proceedings. However, if he disagrees, the matter will be referred to the anti-doping disciplinary panel.
