Bajrang Punia Vows to Fight NADA's Allegations

Wrestler Bajrang Punia has accused the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) of unjustly targeting him following a suspension for alleged doping violations. Bajrang claims NADA sent expired kits and used unregistered personnel for sample collection. He pledges to contest the agency's decisions and fight for his career.

Wrestler Bajrang Punia has issued strong allegations against the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) on Monday, claiming systemic flaws aimed at ending his sporting career. Bajrang was suspended by NADA for the second time on June 24, despite previous relief from the Anti-Doping Disciplinary Panel (ADDP).

The ADDP had initially lifted his first suspension because NADA had not served him an official notice. However, following the new issuance of notice, the Tokyo Games medallist faces suspension again. According to Bajrang, NADA is determined to hinder his wrestling career at any cost.

Bajrang's suspension stems from his refusal to provide a sample during selection trials in Sonepat on March 10. The 30-year-old multiple-time World Championship medallist persistently questions why NADA sent an expired kit for sample collection in December 2023.

In a detailed post on X, Bajrang queried NADA's actions and intentions, highlighting inconsistencies such as the use of an unregistered chaperone and pressure to collect samples between crucial matches. He vowed to continue fighting, asserting that his lawyer would reply by the July 11 deadline.