AFI bans 6 states, slaps ban on 14 athletes for doping

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has banned six states, including Delhi and Haryana, for fielding overaged athletes while slapping two year suspension on 14 other athletes for doping. This decision was taken during a two-day meeting of the executive committee of AFI on December 22 and 23. ‘In order to curb the overage and doping menace, the executive committee of AFI has decided to enforce stringent measures on both erring athletes and their respective state-units. As much as 44 athletes found over-aged during the year in various age-group meetings have been barred for two years while the six erring states, to which the above athletes belong, will be suspended for one year. The federation also noted 14 athletes found positive on doping from the beginning of this year and suspend them for a period of 2 years,’ a AFI release stated. The six states, namely, Delhi, Haryana, Bihar, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh will not be able to field their athletes for the next season.But the athletes of these states can take part in National events under the banner of AFI. ‘It was also decided not to allow the six states to participate in any competitions organised by AFI for one year. However, the athletes may be allowed to participate under the banner of AFI if the president/secretary so desire.’