Proposed Amendments to Anti-Doping Act Aim to Combat Doping Networks

The Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, has proposed significant amendments to the National Anti-Doping Act aimed at combating doping networks. The new provisions will introduce criminal penalties for trafficking and distribution of banned substances while ensuring that athletes are not criminally prosecuted for anti-doping violations. The reforms focus on protecting vulnerable athletes, particularly minors, and align with international standards set by UNESCO and WADA. This initiative seeks to enhance the integrity of sports in India as the country continues to grow in the international sports arena.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 21, 2026, 14:43 IST

Significant Changes to the National Anti-Doping Act

Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, has put forth extensive amendments to the National Anti-Doping Act. These changes aim to introduce criminal provisions that specifically target trafficking, illegal distribution, and organized networks involved in doping activities. Importantly, athletes will not face criminal charges solely for violations of anti-doping rules or positive drug tests.

New Criminal Framework to Address Doping Issues

In a public consultation document released on Thursday, the Sports Ministry highlighted that the existing anti-doping framework primarily relies on sporting sanctions, such as suspensions and disqualifications. It lacks a robust criminal mechanism to address the organized networks that facilitate the use of performance-enhancing substances.

The proposed amendments aim to criminalize various activities, including the trafficking, sale, and distribution of banned substances, administering these substances to athletes, supplying them to minors, and engaging in commercial activities related to doping. Additionally, advertisements promoting doping will also be targeted.

Prioritizing Traffickers While Protecting Athletes

The ministry emphasized that the goal is to safeguard athletes and dismantle the criminal networks profiting from doping. Under the new framework, athletes who test positive for banned substances will continue to face penalties under the current anti-doping regime rather than criminal charges.

The amendments will focus on traffickers, illegal suppliers, organized syndicates, and individuals who administer prohibited substances to athletes.

Safeguarding Young and Vulnerable Athletes

The ministry has also proposed stricter penalties for cases involving minors or organized crime groups, recognizing that young athletes are particularly susceptible to manipulation and exploitation.

These reforms are designed to protect grassroots sports and ensure a secure future for Indian athletes.

Compliance with International Standards

The proposed framework aligns with India's commitments under the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport and adheres to the guidelines set by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

Furthermore, athletes with valid Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs) will continue to be protected, and medical practitioners providing urgent care will also be safeguarded under these new provisions.

The ministry stated that these reforms aim to balance athlete protection, the integrity of sports, public health, and effective enforcement as India enhances its clean sport framework in light of its rising prominence in international sports.