NEW DELHI, Nov 27: The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) has imposed a four-year suspension on Olympic bronze medalist Bajrang Punia for refusing to provide a urine sample during a doping test at the national team selection trials on March 10, 2024. This suspension comes after an initial suspension on April 23, which was contested by the wrestler, leading to an appeal and a series of hearings.

Bajrang, who joined Congress alongside fellow wrestler Vinesh Phogat and was appointed to lead the All India Kisan Congress, has continuously argued that he was unfairly treated due to his involvement in protests against the former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) President, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. He maintains that his refusal was not deliberate but stemmed from concerns over the use of expired kits during a previous doping test in December 2023. Bajrang demanded a response from NADA regarding his concerns before providing the sample.

Despite his defense, the Anti-Disciplinary Doping Panel (ADDP) of NADA concluded that Bajrang’s refusal to submit the sample was “intentional and deliberate.” The panel emphasized that his actions showed a lack of responsibility as per the Anti-Doping Rules, and the suspension will be effective from April 23, 2024, though the period from May 31 to June 21, 2024, will not be counted toward the total suspension due to the temporary lifting of the provisional suspension.

In its ruling, NADA also confirmed that Bajrang’s four-year ban will prevent him from returning to competitive wrestling or pursuing a coaching career abroad. The decision highlights NADA’s commitment to maintaining integrity in the sport and ensuring compliance with anti-doping regulations.

Bajrang’s legal team had submitted written challenges during hearings on July 11, September 20, and October 4, arguing that his treatment by NADA was prejudicial and unfair. However, NADA upheld its position, stating that the wrestler had demonstrated “utter disregard” for the doping process.