Indian distance runner Pooja suspended for evading dope test

Indian long-distance runner Pooja Aatmaram has been provisionally suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) for allegedly evading a mandatory dope test, casting a shadow over the country’s athletics circuit once again.

The AIU, the global body responsible for maintaining integrity in track and field, issued a brief statement confirming that disciplinary action has been initiated against the Rajasthan athlete. According to the notice, Pooja has been charged with “evading, refusing or failing to submit to sample collection” , a violation under Article 2.3 of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Code .

The rule applies when an athlete, after being officially notified for testing, either refuses or avoids providing a sample without a valid reason. Such violations are treated as seriously as testing positive for banned substances under anti-doping regulations.

Pooja, 30, is a relatively lesser-known name in Indian athletics and competes in the 5000 metres and 10,000 metres events. Her most notable performance came in 2024, when she secured a third-place finish at the Indian Grand Prix 2 , representing Rajasthan. She also participated in the National Cross Country Championships in Lucknow last year , where she finished 25th.

With the provisional suspension now in effect, she is barred from participating in competitions until the case is heard and a final decision is made. If found guilty, she could face a lengthy ban from the sport.

The development adds to growing concerns over doping-related issues in Indian athletics, with authorities continuing to tighten monitoring and enforcement to protect fair competition.