Bhubaneswar: Indian athletics has been rocked by another doping scandal — this time involving one of its most experienced throwers. Manju Bala, the 2014 Asian Games bronze medalist in hammer throw, has been handed a five-year ban by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) after testing positive for anabolic steroids and a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM).
The verdict, issued by the Anti-Doping Disciplinary Panel (ADDP), ruled that Bala’s sample contained dehydrochloromethyl-testosterone, a powerful muscle-building steroid, and LGD-4033 (Ligandrol), a performance-enhancing compound that increases muscle mass and strength. The ban is effective from July 10, 2024, and will remain in force until 2029, effectively ending her competitive career.
Manju Bala, who has been one of India’s consistent performers in field events, had proudly represented the country in multiple international meets. Her bronze medal at the 2014 Incheon Asian Games remains one of the biggest achievements of her career, alongside several national titles. Over the years, she was seen as a role model for young athletes from Rajasthan, known for her discipline and longevity in a sport that rarely stays in the spotlight.
However, this doping case has cast a shadow over her legacy. According to the NADA report, Bala failed to provide sufficient justification for the presence of prohibited substances in her system. The ADDP panel, in its decision, stated that “the athlete has violated Article 2.1 of the Anti-Doping Rules of NADA India,” which pertains to the presence of a prohibited substance in an athlete’s sample.
Officials described the case as “a disappointment for Indian athletics.” A senior NADA representative, speaking anonymously, remarked, “Manju Bala was an experienced athlete who knew the rules. Her case serves as a reminder that no athlete, no matter how senior, is above anti-doping regulations.”
The five-year ban means Bala will not be eligible to compete in any national or international competitions, nor can she be considered for team selection or rankings during this period. At 35, this suspension is likely to mark the end of her career.
For Indian athletics, the incident is yet another wake-up call. Several recent doping cases have drawn attention to the need for stronger education and monitoring programs among athletes. Experts say many competitors, especially those from non-metro training centers, lack awareness about the substances they consume.
Sports commentator R. K. Menon summed it up aptly: “Manju Bala was a name associated with grit and consistency. But doping doesn’t just rob an athlete of medals — it erases trust. Her story is both a warning and a tragedy.”
As the dust settles, Indian athletics faces another test — not on the field, but in ensuring the integrity of its sport remains untainted.
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