Institutional teams biggest offenders

The number of positive dope cases from among the different departments that recruit sportspersons is on the rise.

The number of positive dope cases from among the different departments that recruit sportspersons is on the rise.

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According to a National Anti Doping Agency (NADA) report, as many as 25 top sportspersons failed dope tests during departmental competitions in 2010-11. Of the 25 offenders, 11 are from the Services Sports Control Board (SSCB), six from the Petroleum Sports Promotion Board (PSPB) and eight from the Railways Sports Promotion Board (RSPB).

What is disturbing is the fact that the data of competitions held under the aegis of national sports federations (NSFs) has not been taken into account. NADA director-general, Rahul Bhatnagar, expressed concern over the growing number of cases among institutional teams, which are the main feeder line to the country. “It’s very upsetting. The government recruits players on the basis of their performance. But after failing dope tests, their contribution to sports becomes negligible,” said Bhatnagar.

Recently, NADA shot a letter to the three institutions asking them to be more vigilant. “The government employees should act as a role model and promote clean and healthy environment. But it’s the other way round. Players are indulging in doping activities which is a serious offence,” Bhatnagar wrote in his letter.

The NADA director-general has also noted that coaches are hand in gloves with athletes.