Indian athletics was rocked this week as Jasmine Kaur, the reigning National Games women’s shot put champion, was provisionally suspended by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA). The news comes just months after her gold-medal performance in Dehra Dun, raising questions about doping controls and the future of one of India’s brightest field athletes.
Jasmine Kaur: From Gold Medal Glory to Provisional Suspension
A Stellar Season Cut Short
Jasmine Kaur, representing Punjab, clinched gold at the 2025 National Games with a personal best throw of 15.97 meters. Her rise in Indian athletics was rapid, and she was seen as a promising contender for international events.
However, her career has hit a major roadblock. NADA provisionally suspended Jasmine after she tested positive for a banned substance during routine anti-doping checks. The specific details of the substance have not yet been made public, but the suspension means she is barred from competition pending further investigation.
The Timeline
February 2025: Jasmine wins gold at the National Games with a throw of 15.97m.
July 2025: News breaks of her provisional suspension by NADA following a positive doping test.
What Does a Provisional Suspension Mean?
A provisional suspension is an initial step taken when an athlete tests positive for a prohibited substance. It is not a final ban, but it prevents the athlete from competing until the case is fully reviewed and adjudicated.
Athlete’s Rights: Jasmine Kaur has the right to request analysis of her ‘B’ sample and to appeal the decision if she believes there has been an error.
Potential Outcomes: If the violation is confirmed, she could face a multi-year ban, loss of medals, and removal from national teams.
Doping in Indian Athletics: A Growing Concern
Jasmine’s case is the latest in a string of doping incidents that have plagued Indian athletics. In recent years, several top athletes—including shot putters and discus throwers—have been handed lengthy bans for anti-doping violations. The issue has cast a shadow over India’s sporting ambitions, especially as the country bids to host major international events.
Recent High-Profile Cases
Karanveer Singh (shot put) and Kirpal Singh (discus) were banned for four years in 2023 after testing positive for banned substances.
Doping scandals have raised concerns about the effectiveness of education and testing protocols within Indian athletics.
The Road Ahead for Jasmine Kaur
Jasmine’s immediate future in athletics is uncertain. Her suspension will be reviewed by NADA’s disciplinary panel, which will consider the evidence, the athlete’s explanation, and the results of any ‘B’ sample analysis.
If cleared: She could return to competition and retain her titles.
If found guilty: She faces a ban and potential annulment of her recent achievements.
FAQs: Jasmine Kaur’s Provisional Suspension
1. Why was Jasmine Kaur provisionally suspended?
Jasmine Kaur was provisionally suspended after testing positive for a banned substance during routine anti-doping checks by NADA.
2. What does a provisional suspension mean for an athlete?
It means the athlete is temporarily barred from competition while the case is investigated. A final decision is made after a hearing and possible ‘B’ sample analysis.
3. What happens if the doping violation is confirmed?
If confirmed, Jasmine could face a multi-year ban, loss of medals, and removal from national teams.
4. Has Jasmine Kaur won any major titles recently?
Yes, she won gold in women’s shot put at the 2025 National Games with a personal best throw of 15.97 meters.
5. Is doping a widespread issue in Indian athletics?
Several Indian athletes have faced bans for doping in recent years, highlighting a persistent problem within the sport.
Conclusion
Jasmine Kaur’s provisional suspension by NADA is a sobering reminder of the ongoing battle against doping in Indian athletics. As the investigation unfolds, the sporting community will be watching closely—not just for the outcome of Jasmine’s case, but for the broader message it sends about fair play and the future of Indian sport.
