Bajrang Punia Takes NADA to High Court Over Suspension

In a dramatic turn of events, celebrated Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia has taken his fight from the mat to the courtroom. The Olympic bronze medalist has approached the Delhi High Court, challenging his suspension by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA). This legal move comes as Punia faces the possibility of missing the Senior World Wrestling Championships scheduled for October in Albania.

A Career in Jeopardy 

Punia's petition argues that NADA's suspension, issued on June 21, is "arbitrary" and violates his fundamental rights to practice his profession and earn a livelihood. The wrestler claims that if the suspension isn't lifted, he may be "forced to retire" from the sport he loves. 

"The Petitioner will have no other option but to officially retire from the sport of wrestling," states the petition filed through lawyer Vidushpat Singhania. This highlights the serious implications of the suspension on Punia's career. 

The Suspension Saga

The controversy began on April 23 when NADA first suspended Punia for allegedly refusing to provide a urine sample during selection trials in Sonepat on March 10. Although an Anti-Disciplinary Doping (ADDP) panel revoked this suspension, NADA issued a second suspension on June 21, along with a formal "notice of charge." 

Punia's legal team argues that NADA acted without properly considering the wrestler's explanations and evidence. They're seeking to have the June 21 suspension order quashed or suspended.

Questions of Procedure

In his petition, Punia raises concerns about NADA's testing procedures. He claims the agency used expired test kits during sample collection, calling into question the validity of their actions.

"The present Petition is filed... by the Petitioner being aggrieved inter alia, by the illegal conduct of the Respondent i.e. the National Anti-Doping Agency of India whilst undertaking the sample collection of the Petitioner by using expired test kits and subsequently suspending him on arbitrary grounds," the petition states.

 As this legal battle unfolds, it not only impacts Punia's immediate future but also raises important questions about the rights of athletes and the procedures followed by anti-doping agencies. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for sports governance in India.