The shadow of doping continues to loom large over Indian athletics. On June 27, 2025, multiple National Games medallist and middle-distance runner Twinkle Chaudhary was provisionally suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) after testing positive for a banned steroid. Her suspension is the latest blow to India’s ongoing struggle with doping violations in sports, raising fresh concerns about the country’s anti-doping efforts and international reputation.
Who is Twinkle Chaudhary?
Twinkle Chaudhary, 28, is a prominent name in Indian athletics. Hailing from Jalandhar, she has made a mark on the national and international circuit:
- Gold medalist in the women’s 4x400m relay at the Uttarakhand National Games earlier this year
- Silver medalist in the 800m and bronze in the 4x400m mixed relay at the same Games
- Set a meet record of 2:00.71 in the 800m at the 28th National Federation Senior Athletics Championships in Kochi in April
- Recently won silver in the 800m at the Taiwan Open and finished fourth at the Asian Athletics Championships in South Korea
- Chaudhary trains at the Reliance Foundation and is guided by Athletics Director James Hillier.
Details of the Doping Suspension
The AIU provisionally suspended Chaudhary after she tested positive for Methyltestosterone, an anabolic steroid listed as prohibited. She has been issued a “notice of allegation” and will have the opportunity to present her case at a hearing.
Key Points:
- Substance Detected: Methyltestosterone (anabolic steroid)
- Current Status: Provisional suspension
- Next Steps: Hearing to determine the final outcome
India’s Doping Crisis: A Growing Concern
Chaudhary’s suspension is not an isolated incident. In May, quarter-miler Sneha Kolleri was also suspended after testing positive for Stanozolol, another banned steroid. These cases highlight a troubling pattern:
- India has one of the highest doping violation rates globally.
- According to 2023 World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) data, India had a 3.8% rate of adverse findings among nations conducting over 5,000 tests.
- Out of 204,809 global tests, 1,820 were positive—India accounted for 214, or over 11% of all violations.
This persistent problem has prompted the Sports Ministry to pledge a more aggressive fight against doping, including enhanced awareness campaigns and a revised National Anti-Doping Act to address WADA’s concerns about government interference.
Impact on Indian Athletics
The suspension of a high-profile athlete like Chaudhary is a setback for India’s sporting ambitions, especially with major international competitions on the horizon. It raises questions about:
- The effectiveness of anti-doping education and testing protocols
- The pressures faced by athletes to perform at the highest level
- The need for systemic reform and support for clean sport
What Happens Next?
Chaudhary’s fate will be decided at a formal hearing, where she can present her defense. If found guilty, she could face a lengthy ban, stripping her of recent achievements and jeopardizing her athletic career.
Conclusion
Twinkle Chaudhary’s doping suspension is a stark reminder of the challenges Indian athletics faces in its quest for global respect and clean competition. As authorities promise tougher action and reforms, the sporting community—and fans—will be watching closely to see if India can turn the tide against doping.
FAQs
1. What substance did Twinkle Chaudhary test positive for?
She tested positive for Methyltestosterone, a banned anabolic steroid.
2. What are the next steps in her case?
Chaudhary will have a hearing where she can present her defense before a final decision is made by the AIU.
3. How does this affect India’s reputation in athletics?
The suspension adds to India’s already poor international record on doping, raising concerns about the effectiveness of anti-doping measures.
4. Has India faced similar doping cases recently?
Yes, quarter-miler Sneha Kolleri was also suspended in May 2025 for testing positive for another banned steroid.
5. What is being done to combat doping in India?
The Sports Ministry is increasing awareness campaigns and plans to introduce a revised National Anti-Doping Act to strengthen compliance with global standards.
