Judoka Tulika Maan suspended, withdrawn from Glasgow Commonwealth Games
Judoka Tulika Maan suspended from Glasgow Games
Indian judoka Tulika Maan, a silver medallist at the Commonwealth Games, has been provisionally suspended by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) due to three whereabouts failures. This suspension has led to her withdrawal from the Glasgow Games and she now faces a potential two-year ban. Maan had secured a silver medal in the +78kg category at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games.
The suspension marks a significant setback for the Indian judo contingent, as Maan was considered a strong medal prospect for the upcoming Games. Her absence weakens India’s chances, particularly in the women’s heavyweight category. The Indian judo team is scheduled to depart for Glasgow on July 27, with competitions set to begin on July 31.
Whereabouts failures and their implications
The provisional suspension stems from three whereabouts failures within a 12-month period, as confirmed by NADA. A judo coach, speaking anonymously, stated that NADA had issued a notice to Maan regarding these failures, leading to her removal from the team. Under World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) rules, three whereabouts failures—which can include filing failures or missed tests—within a 12-month timeframe constitute an anti-doping rule violation.
Athletes who are part of the Registered Testing Pool (RTP) are required to provide detailed location information. This includes their overnight address, the full addresses of places where they train, work, or engage in other regular activities, along with the usual timings for these activities. Additionally, RTP athletes must specify a 60-minute window each day, for every quarter, during which they must be available for testing. Failing to meet these obligations can result in disciplinary action, including suspension.
Maan’s situation is distinct from a positive doping test, as it specifically relates to the anti-doping whereabouts system. Her case highlights the strict requirements placed on athletes to ensure they can be located for out-of-competition testing. Failure to comply with these regulations can have serious consequences for an athlete’s career and participation in major events.
Impact on the Indian judo team
Maan’s withdrawal is the second blow to India’s judo campaign for the Glasgow Games. Just a day prior, Arun Kumar, who competes in the men’s -73kg category, was also pulled from the squad. Kumar received a provisional suspension from NADA after failing an out-of-competition dope test, testing positive for an anabolic steroid. These two suspensions have disrupted India’s preparations even before the team has left for the Games.
Maan is recognized as one of India’s accomplished judokas. Beyond her Commonwealth Games silver medal in Birmingham, she represented India at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she exited in the round of 32. She also participated in the 2022 and 2024 World Championships. Her experience and past performances made her a key member of the Indian contingent.
India had initially approved a 14-member judo team for the Glasgow Games, comprising seven men and seven women. In the previous edition of the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham in 2022, a six-member Indian contingent secured three medals, consisting of two silver and one bronze. The recent withdrawals have raised concerns about the team’s prospects in Glasgow.
The Indian judo team’s events in Glasgow are scheduled to commence on July 31.
Source: m.rediff.com
