NEW DELHI: Pramod Bhagat, the reigning Paralympic champion in badminton, has been suspended for 18 months due to violations of the BWF's anti-doping whereabouts clause. The suspension is effective immediately, resulting in Bhagat missing the upcoming Paris Paralympics, a significant loss for India's medal prospects.
The whereabouts clause is a crucial aspect of anti-doping regulations. It requires athletes to provide detailed information about their locations for out-of-competition testing. Failure to comply with this clause can lead to suspensions, as seen in Bhagat's case.
"In 1 March 2024, the Court of Arbitration of Sport (CAS) Anti-Doping Division found Bhagat in breach of the BWF anti-doping regulations for committing three whereabouts failures within 12 months," the Badminton World Federation (BWF) said in a statement.
"Bhagat, an SL3 athlete, appealed this decision to the CAS Appeals Division. On 29 July 2024, the CAS Appeals Division dismissed the Bhagat's appeal and confirmed the CAS Anti-Doping Division decision of 1 March 2024. His period of ineligibility is now in effect," the statement added.
Pramod Bhagat's suspension is effective till September 1, 2025.
"It is extremely sad and unfortunate. He was a sure shot medal for India at the Paralympics but he is a fighter and I am sure he will come back stronger," Indian para-badminton head coach Gaurav Khanna told PTI.
Pramod Bhagat has been a cornerstone of Indian para-sports, particularly in para-badminton. He has inspired many with his achievements and dedication to the sport. His career is marked by significant milestones, including a gold medal in the men's singles SL3 category at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.
In addition to his Paralympic success, Bhagat has won multiple gold medals at the World Championships and Asian Para Games. His contributions have been pivotal in establishing India's prominence in para-badminton globally.
The 36-year-old shuttler had equalled the legendary Lin Dan of China by winning a fifth World Championships title in February last year at Pattaya, Thailand.
