WADA President Sees Hope in India's Fight Against Doping

WADA President Witold Banka acknowledges India's serious doping problem but notes sincere efforts to address it, including Operation Upstream against global drug suppliers. With aspirations to host major events, India's compliance is crucial. The focus remains on penalizing suppliers, not athletes, as criminalization discussions continue.

World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) President Witold Banka has expressed optimism about India's recent efforts to tackle its significant doping issue. During a rapid tour meeting with key officials, he highlighted the country's sincere attempts to comply with global standards ahead of potential major sports events.

India, which has led doping violations for three years, is eager to host international competitions but faces challenges due to its high doping positivity rate. Acknowledging ongoing operations like 'Operation Upstream' in collaboration with INTERPOL, Banka emphasized targeting drug suppliers rather than athletes in anti-doping measures.

Banka, a proponent of criminalizing doping, insists on accountability for suppliers, advocating legislative focus on enablers rather than competitors, whom he views as victims. He notes that doping crimes are complex and profitable, urging smarter strategies to address this global issue.

(With inputs from agencies.)