Government has published proposed amendments related to the criminalisation of doping activities in the public domain for stakeholder consultation and feedback.

 

Youth Affairs and Sports Ministry said the proposed framework seeks to address the growing organised ecosystem involved in trafficking, illegal supply, administration and commercial distribution of prohibited performance-enhancing substances and methods. 

 

The proposed amendments aim to criminalise activities such as trafficking, unauthorised sale and distribution of prohibited substances, supply of prohibited substances to minors and advertisements and paid promotions encouraging doping. 

 

The athletes not found involved in the proposed criminal offences like trafficking and organised syndicate will not be criminalised merely for anti-doping rule violations or positive tests. 

 

The Ministry said that anti-doping rule violations by athletes will continue to be dealt with under the existing anti-doping framework.

 

Stakeholders have been invited to submit their comments and suggestions on the proposed amendments by the 18th of next month.