NEW DELHI, India: India’s ambitions to host major global sporting events are facing scrutiny as concerns over doping and performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) continue to mount, according to the World Anti-Doping Agency.
The issue has drawn particular attention as India prepares bids for future international competitions, including the 2030 Commonwealth Games and a potential 2036 Olympics.
WADA President Witold Banka said the country faces a significant challenge, highlighting both the scale of drug production and the number of violations recorded in recent years.
“It’s no doubt that there is a big problem with doping in India. The statistics show clearly the number of positive tests,” he said.
According to WADA data, India has topped the global list of doping violations for three consecutive years, while also being identified as the world’s largest producer of illegal performance-enhancing substances.
Distribution of banned substances
The figures have raised concerns among experts about the credibility of the country’s sporting ecosystem, particularly as it seeks to position itself as a future host of global events.
Authorities say efforts are under way to address the issue. WADA has been working with India’s Central Bureau of Investigation to target supply chains and dismantle criminal networks involved in the distribution of banned substances.
Experts argue that tackling doping requires shifting focus from athletes to those facilitating access to PEDs, including coaches, medical professionals and organised networks.
Despite the concerns, Banka said the issue would not automatically disqualify India from hosting major events, emphasising that the effectiveness of its anti-doping system would be the key factor.
“It’s about how the system works from the legal perspective, and this is our role as a global anti-doping regulator to assess it,” he said.
