Lok Sabha passes National Anti-Doping Bill, 2021
Recently Lok Sabha has passed the National Anti-Doping Bill.
The Bill provides a legal framework to strengthen anti-doping activities in sports. At the same time, it also gives effect to UNESCO’s International Convention against Doping in Sport. India has also ratified this convention.
Athletes consume certain banned substances to improve their performance. This is what is called doping.
Salient features of the bill-
- It prohibits athletes, athlete’s support personnel and other persons from engaging in doping in sports.
- Violation of anti-doping rules can result in disqualification of the game. Medals and prizes may be forfeited and participation in sporting events may be banned for a specified period. It may also impose financial sanctions.
- It grants the status of a statutory body to the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA). This institution is headed by a Director General. It is appointed by the central government.
- NADA was established in the year 2005 as a registered society.
- A national board will be set up for anti-doping work in sports. This board will make recommendations on anti-doping regulations. Also, ensure compliance with international commitments related to anti-doping actions.
- This board will constitute a National Anti-Doping Disciplinary Panel. It will determine the consequences in case of violation of anti-doping rules.
- This board will also constitute a National Anti-Doping Appeals Panel. Appeals can be made against the decisions of the disciplinary panel.
- The bill also seeks to promote cooperation between agencies in combating doping. At the same time, it also talks about getting timely justice to the athletes.
Source – The Hindu
