India faces escalating sports doping crisis

India is facing a significant sports doping crisis, characterized by a sharp rise in positive anti-doping tests over the last three years. Government data indicates that 125 athletes tested positive in 2022, increasing to 213 in 2023, and reaching 260 in 2024.

As a result of these repeated violations, the Athletics Integrity Unit classified Indian athletics as an “extremely high” doping risk in April 2026. This classification has led to stricter testing requirements and the loss of athlete quotas for the 2026 Commonwealth Games, particularly affecting weightlifting and judo.

The crisis has also impacted the wrestling sector. The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) issued a strict advisory following the removal of Asian Games-bound wrestlers Mukul Dahiya and Deepanshu from the national squad due to doping violations. Dahiya tested positive for the stimulant Mephentermine, while Deepanshu received an eight-year ban after testing positive for Stanozolol, marking a second offense.

In response to the growing issue, the Indian government has proposed expanding testing protocols and introducing criminal penalties for traffickers, suppliers, and support personnel involved in organized doping activities.