Wrestler Bajrang Punia has taken his case to the Delhi High Court, opposing his suspension by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA). This decision comes just weeks before the Senior World Wrestling Championships, set to take place in Albania in October 2024.
Violation of Rights
Punia argues that NADA’s actions are against his fundamental rights under the Indian Constitution. He claims that the suspension prevents him from practicing his profession and earning a livelihood, which may force him to retire early. He is requesting the court to cancel the suspension.
Background of Suspension
On June 21, NADA suspended Punia for the second time, officially notifying him of the charges and barring him from training or competing. This followed a decision by the Anti-Disciplinary Doping Panel (ADDP) three weeks earlier, which had canceled a previous suspension, stating that NADA had failed to issue a formal notice of charge.
Previous Suspension
Punia was first suspended by NADA on April 23 for refusing to provide a urine sample during selection trials on March 10 in Sonepat. The United World Wrestling (UWW), the sport’s global governing body, also suspended him.
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Legal Argument
Punia’s lawyer, Vidushpat Singhania, filed the petition, arguing that NADA did not follow proper testing guidelines, including using expired testing kits. Punia claims the suspension was arbitrary and that his explanations and evidence were ignored. He has asked the court to overturn the suspension, which was passed without proper consideration.
Risk of Forced Retirement
In his plea, Punia expressed concerns that if the suspension is not lifted, he will miss the opportunity to compete in the Senior World Wrestling Championships in Albania from October 28 to 31, 2024. This event is crucial for his career, and missing it could lead to his forced retirement from the sport.
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