The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) made a surprise visit to Kalinga Stadium, where India’s athletics preparatory squad is training for the Asian Games 2026. WADA officials conducted surprise dope tests on athletes at the camp as part of their testing process.
The surprise testing comes at a time when concerns over doping cases among Indian athletes have increased. In 2025, India registered the highest number of doping cases in the world, making the issue a serious concern for Indian sport.
We also saw doping-related cases during the Commonwealth Games 2026. India had a contingent of 126 athletes, and three athletes were reportedly found positive for doping and did not participate in the Games.
Just two days ago, Abhishek Pal, the Indian 5,000m and 10,000m runner who is set to represent India at the Asian Games 2026, was also reported to have tested positive for Clomiphene, a substance associated with fertility treatment.
With several such cases involving Indian athletes, WADA’s surprise testing at Kalinga Stadium highlights the growing focus on anti-doping measures. For Indian athletes, maintaining a clean image is important not only for their careers but also for the respect, credibility and integrity of Indian sport.
The athletes are preparing for one of the biggest sporting events in Asia, and these tests serve as a reminder that clean sport and fair competition must remain a priority.