In yet another embarrassing doping episode for Indian wrestling, Under-23 Asian Championship silver medallist Reena has flunked a dope test, resulting in a provisional suspension.
Wrestling Federation of India president Brij Bhushan Sharan confirmed the development to the PTI.
"Reena had failed the dope test for consuming a banned substance. We were intimated by the World Wrestling Federation (UWW) a few days back. We asked her and she said she took an injection to treat pain on advice of a relative who happens to be a coach," Sharan said.
Reena had a won a silver in the 53kg category at the championship, held in Mongolia in March. She had also won a bronze in the junior Asian championship last year in July, apart from winning a silver in the Asian cadet championship in 2015.
"It's not good news. We again have to cough up Rs 16 lakh to pay the penalty to the UWW. Now we can afford but it was not possible a few years back. We have already paid Rs 32 lakh in last 12 months and this is now third case."
"If they do and 2-3 offenders are caught, it will instil fear in minds of others. It will work as a deterrent. But it has been not been done."