Renowned Discus Thrower Seema Punia Suspended for Doping Violation

Discus thrower Seema Antil Punia has been suspended for 16 months by the National Anti-Doping Agency due to a doping violation. Punia's ban will be effective from November 10, 2025, affecting her illustrious career which includes multiple medals at the Asian and Commonwealth Games.

Seema Antil Punia, an accomplished discus thrower with a track record of success at the Asian and Commonwealth Games, has been suspended for 16 months due to a doping violation, according to the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA).

Punia's suspension, effective from November 10, 2025, comes as a setback to her prominent career, which boasts a bronze medal at the 2022 Asian Games. The 42-year-old athlete has consistently demonstrated excellence in her field over the years, with four Commonwealth Games medals under her belt.

NADA also announced additional suspensions, including a four-year ban for distance runner Pooja Yadav, a six-year suspension for shot-putter Manjeet Kumar Mahto, and a four-year ban for middle-distance runner Nikesh Dhanraj Rathod, highlighting a broader crackdown on doping violations in athletics.

(With inputs from agencies.)