Wrestler Narsingh Yadav's hopes to represent India in next month's Rio Olympics suffered a major setback after he failed a dope test conducted by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA).
The 26-year-old, who is India's contender in 74kg men's freestyle category at the Summer Games, was tested positive for a banned steroid, thus casting doubts over his participation in the prestigious event.
The NADA conducted a random dope test on Yadav on July 5 at the Sports Authority of India's (SAI) regional centre in Sonipat.
According to reports, Narsingh was also called for his 'B' sample test, which also failed.
A statement from the ministry confirmed the news, saying, "The Anti-Doping Disciplinary Panel (ADDP) has been constituted by NADA under its rules for hearing the case. Its first hearing was held yesterday in which the wrestler was given an opportunity to defend himself. After the hearing, the panel has asked NADA for some further reports. After these reports are received, the panel would hold further hearing in the matter. ADDP is headed by a legal expert and includes doctors and sportspersons."
Narsingh, who bagged the quota in the 74kg category with a bronze medal finish in last year's World Championships, was selected for the Rio Olympics in controversial circumstances as two-time Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar had demanded for trials to determine who should go to the games.
However, Narsingh was favoured for the same after fighting a lengthy legal battle with Sushil.