Why Was Asian Games Medallist Manju Bala Banned for Five Years?
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Synopsis
In a significant anti-doping crackdown, Asian Games medallist Manju Bala faces a five-year ban after testing positive for banned substances. This ruling from the ADDP of NADA highlights the ongoing battle against doping in sports, as the panel also hands out multiple suspensions in various disciplines. Read on to find out more about the implications of these decisions.
Key Takeaways
- Manju Bala faces a five-year ban for doping.
- She tested positive for anabolic steroids.
- The ban starts from July 10, 2024.
- Her suspension impacts her career significantly.
- NADA is committed to upholding the integrity of sports.
New Delhi, Nov 11 (NationPress) Indian hammer thrower Manju Bala, who earned a bronze medal at the 2014 Incheon Asian Games, has received a five-year suspension from the Anti-Doping Disciplinary Panel (ADDP) of the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) after testing positive for banned substances.
Manju, known as one of India’s most seasoned throwers, was found guilty of using dehydrochloromethyl-testosterone (an anabolic steroid) and SARMS LGD-4033 (ligandrol)—both of which are prohibited under the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code.
The results of her failed drug test were disclosed by NADA in September 2024, with the ADDP’s decision, delivered in October 2025, affirming her suspension.
As stated by the panel, Manju’s ban is effective from July 10, 2024, which means she will miss all national and international competitions until mid-2029. The 35-year-old has previously represented India in various continental events and was considered one of the country’s top prospects in women’s hammer throw.
The ADDP also revealed multiple suspensions across various sports during this recent anti-doping enforcement. Mohan Saini received a four-year ban, effective October 14, 2025, for a different doping infraction.
Three bodybuilders—Gopala Krishnan, Amit Kumar, and Rajvardhan Sanjay Waskar—each faced a six-year suspension, while another bodybuilder, Shubham Mahara, was given a four-year ban.
In boxing, Sumit is now banned for two years, while canoeist Nitin Verma and basketball player Shivendra Pandey received four and six-year suspensions, respectively, after testing positive for prohibited substances.
Meanwhile, the Anti-Doping Appeal Panel (ADAP) maintained the four-year ban issued in 2024 on sprinter Himani Chandel, dismissing her appeal. The panel found no procedural or substantive reasons to reverse the earlier ruling, emphasizing NADA’s strict approach to doping violations.
Point of View
We stand firmly against doping violations in sports. The suspension of athletes like Manju Bala serves as a crucial reminder of the integrity required in athletics. Upholding fair play is essential, and measures taken by the ADDP and NADA are critical in maintaining the credibility of sports in India. We support stringent actions against those who compromise this integrity.
NationPress
12/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Manju Bala banned for?
Manju Bala was banned for testing positive for banned substances, including dehydrochloromethyl-testosterone and SARMS LGD-4033, both of which are prohibited under WADA regulations.
How long is Manju Bala's ban?
Manju Bala has been handed a five-year ban by the Anti-Doping Disciplinary Panel, effective from July 10, 2024.
What does this ban mean for her career?
The ban effectively rules her out of all national and international competitions until mid-2029, significantly impacting her athletic career.
What other suspensions were announced?
The ADDP announced several suspensions across various sports, including a four-year ban for Mohan Saini and six-year bans for three bodybuilders.
What is NADA's stance on doping?
NADA maintains a strict stance against doping violations, as demonstrated by its recent rulings and the upholding of bans for offenders.
