Over 30 athletes, including Popy Hazarika, provisionally suspended for doping violations

The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) has provisionally suspended more than 30 athletes across various sports after they failed dope tests, highlighting a growing concern over substance abuse in Indian sports.

The list, released without detailed case specifics, includes notable names from athletics, weightlifting, wrestling, and powerlifting.

Among the prominent athletes suspended are Popy Hazarika, a gold medallist in the 59kg category at the 2023 Commonwealth Championships, and Anshika Singh, the national champion in U-20 hammer throw in 2024.

Senior National Open 1500m bronze medallist Sunita also finds herself on the list.

Key Athletes under suspension

- Weightlifting: Shyopat Singh, Avinash, Khushi Kag, Vikas Variya, Srilakshmi Chukka, and Popy Hazarika among others.

- Powerlifting: Mohan Kumar, Pratheeksha GN, Honey Dabas (Para), and more.

- Athletics: Anshika Singh, Anusha Biswas, Muskan Rana, and several other medal winners.

- Wrestling: Gesu, Mohit Khokhar, Bunty, and Savita.

- Other Sports: Shivendra Pandey (Basketball), Aman (Wushu), and Shankar Thapa (Boxing).

Alarming trends in doping cases

The list also includes three minors, raising questions about doping awareness and prevention efforts among younger athletes.

Notably, Anusha Biswas, a National U-20 medal-winning sprinter, and other high-achieving athletes face suspensions that could jeopardize their careers.

This development is part of a broader crackdown by NADA to ensure clean sports in the country. However, the recurring emergence of doping violations, especially among accomplished athletes, underscores the need for stricter regulations, robust education programs, and enhanced support systems.

Inputs from PTI