Indian Wrestling Faces Another Doping Blow Ahead of Asian Games
Indian wrestling has taken a hit just before the Asian Games, as Greco-Roman wrestler Deepak has been removed from the national team following a doping violation. This situation further diminishes India’s presence at the upcoming continental event, as reported by PTI.
Deepak’s withdrawal adds to the troubles for the Indian wrestling team, which has already seen two other athletes—Mukul Dahiya in the men’s freestyle 86kg category and Deepanshu in the Greco-Roman 130kg class—disqualified for doping offenses.
The 25-year-old wrestler from Delhi had earned his spot on the team after a noteworthy performance in the lead-up to the Games. Working for the Indian postal service, Deepak made history as the first wrestler from his department to qualify for the Asian Games. He had achieved this after an impressive selection trial in Lucknow at the end of May, where he also performed well in the Federation Cup.
According to the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA), a urine sample provided by Deepak during these trials revealed the presence of clomifene, a substance prohibited in sports under the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) rules. This finding was first reported on July 23, and after a thorough investigation and an interview with Deepak on August 17, NADA escalated the case for further review.
Clomifene is typically used as a treatment for fertility issues in both men and women.
No Immediate Suspension for Deepak
NADA clarified that Deepak has not been suspended yet and can still compete unless further actions are taken against him. However, if the violation is confirmed, any results from the date of the test on May 31, 2026, could be voided. This will happen if the B-sample also tests positive for clomifene, or if Deepak decides to forgo the B-sample testing.
WFI Takes Precautionary Steps
An official from the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) explained that they opted to withdraw Deepak from the roster to avoid potential penalties. A positive test during the Asian Games could result in a hefty fine of up to ₹20 lakh from the governing body for wrestling, UWW.
“Deepak surprised everyone by winning the trials. He was not part of the national camp previously, so he was not tested as frequently. His selection came after his medal performance at the Federation Cup,” said the official.
NADA’s notice also indicated that Deepak did not disclose any medication related to the prohibited substance on his doping control form. Additionally, he did not provide any receipts or documentation for the dietary supplements he claimed to have taken.
NADA further stated that Deepak lacks a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) for clomifene and found no errors in the testing or laboratory procedures that could explain the positive result. The agency concluded that Deepak has not adequately justified the substance found in his sample.
However, Deepak still has the option to challenge the finding by requesting an analysis of his B-sample. He has seven days from receiving the NADA notification to make this request.
