NEW DELHI, May 21: The government has placed proposed amendments aimed at criminalizing organized doping activities in the public domain for stakeholder consultation and feedback.
The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports said the proposed framework is intended to address the growing organised network involved in trafficking, illegal supply, administration and commercial distribution of prohibited performance-enhancing substances and methods.
According to the proposal, activities such as trafficking, unauthorised sale and distribution of banned substances, supply of such substances to minors, and advertisements or paid promotions encouraging doping will be brought under criminal provisions.
The ministry clarified that athletes who are not involved in organised offences such as trafficking or syndicate-level operations will not be criminalised solely on the basis of anti-doping rule violations or positive test results.
It further stated that anti-doping violations committed by athletes will continue to be handled under the existing anti-doping regulatory framework.
Stakeholders have been invited to submit their comments and suggestions on the proposed amendments by the 18th of next month.
