Olympic bronze medallist Bajrang Punia Provisionally Suspended by NADA for Missing Dope Test

Digital Desk: During his suspension period, Punia will not be permitted to participate in any tournaments or trials, casting doubt on his involvement in the upcoming Paris Olympics scheduled for July–August this year.

The wrestler is likely to be excluded from the selection trials for the Paris Olympics, which are expected to take place later this month.

"Subject to paragraph 4:1:2 and pursuant to article 7.4 of the NADR 2021, Bajrang Punia has been immediately provisionally suspended from participating in any competition or activity pending the final decision reached at a hearing in this matter," stated an official release from NADA dated April 23, as reported by news agency ANI.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Punia disputed the allegation, asserting that he did not refuse to provide a sample but instead raised concerns about the integrity of the testing process. He mentioned that an 'expired kit' was presented by NADA officials for his sample and stated that his legal representative, Vidush Singhania, will address the matter in due course.

"I want to clarify the news about me being asked to take a dope test. I've never refused to give my sample to NADA officials. I requested them to first answer my query on what action they took on the expired kit they brought to take my sample and then take my dope test. My lawyer Vidush Singhania will reply to this letter in time," Punia said.

According to the NADA officer's report, Punia departed from the venue despite being informed of the repercussions of his refusal to provide a sample.

"Punia, accompanied by his supporters, reiterated his stance persistently and departed from the venue immediately, declining to provide a dope sample," stated the DCO in the report.

The letter further outlined the options available to Punia, mentioning that if he accepts the consequences, the case will be resolved without further disciplinary proceedings, with the right to appeal. However, disagreement will lead to the matter being referred for adjudication to the anti-doping disciplinary panel.