Asian Games 2018 gold medalist heptathlete Swapna Barman has been provisionally suspended by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) after failing a dope test. The 29-year-old athlete tested positive for the prohibited anabolic-androgenic steroid Boldenone. Despite her recent announcement to retire from competitive sports, official disciplinary proceedings against her will proceed in accordance with anti-doping regulations.
Detection of Prohibited Steroid and Advanced Analytical Testing
The anti-doping test revealed the presence of Boldenone in Swapna Barman's sample. Boldenone is an anabolic steroid that reduces natural testosterone levels and holds no approved therapeutic use for human treatment. The violation was identified using Gas Chromatography-Combustion-Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (GC-C-IRMS). This advanced laboratory technique allows testing authorities to precisely distinguish between naturally produced hormones in the human body and synthetically administered exogenous steroids.
Disciplinary Action to Continue Regardless of Retirement Announcement
Swapna had publicly announced her retirement from athletics earlier this month, citing recurring injuries and intense physical fatigue that left her body unable to cope with the rigorous demands of professional competition. However, a source within NADA confirmed that announcing retirement does not exempt an athlete from anti-doping violations or ongoing investigations. Under standard protocols, Swapna remains provisionally suspended, must appear before a hearing panel, and retains the right to request an analysis of her 'B' sample. Should she choose to return from retirement in the future, any sanction imposed following a finding of guilt will remain fully enforceable.
Historic Asian Games Achievement and Career Journey
Swapna Barman created history at the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games by becoming the first Indian heptathlete to secure a gold medal in the event. The former Asian champion also represented India at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. Raised in extreme poverty in Ghoshpara village near Jalpaiguri, West Bengal, Swapna faced unique physical challenges throughout her career, having been born with six toes on each foot. Running in standard five-toed athletic shoes caused her severe pain and blisters, prompting sportswear manufacturers to later develop custom-built footwear specifically for her. Recently, she ventured into politics by contesting the West Bengal state assembly elections on a Trinamool Congress ticket, though she was unsuccessful in the election.
Additional Bans Issued in NADA's Latest Sanction List
While Swapna Barman is the highest-profile athlete in NADA's latest disciplinary updates, other competitors have also faced strict sanctions. Hockey player Mayank Sharma received a four-year ban following a failed out-of-competition anti-doping test conducted last year. Additionally, 19-year-old runner Sanjana Singh, who won gold medals in both the 1500m and 5000m events at last year's SAFF Senior Athletics Championship, was handed a five-year ban after testing positive for prohibited steroids. Both Mayank and Sanjana were already serving provisional suspensions prior to their final rulings.
