Why was javelin thrower DP Manu suspended from participating in the National Inter-State Senior Athletics Championships?

In an unfortunate turn of events for one of India’s promising javelin throwers, DP Manu, he was suspended from participating in the recently concluded 63rd National Inter-State Senior Athletics Championships in Panchkula, Haryana. This event ended on June 30, which was also the final cut-off date for the Indian track and field athletes to secure their spot for the Paris Olympics 2024.

Ranked 15th on the World Athletics Road to Paris 2024 list, DP Manu was well on his way to qualifying for the Olympics, where 32 athletes will compete in the men's javelin throw event.

However, the 24-year-old’s aspirations took a hit due to a provisional suspension from the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) following a positive test for an anabolic steroid. Manu was initially registered for the championships and was among the prospects to breach the Olympic qualification mark of 85.50m.

Unfortunately, the javelin thrower tested positive during the Indian Grand Prix in April earlier this year. Acting on NADA's instructions, the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) barred Manu from competing in the Inter-State championships.

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DP Manu’s coach, Kashinath Naik also under the radar

DP Manu, who boasts a personal best of 84.35m achieved in 2022, consistently threw over 80m this season. He was regarded as one of India's top prospects, alongside Neeraj Chopra and Kishore Jena, who have already secured direct qualification for the Olympics.

If Manu faces suspension from the Paris Olympics 2024, it would be a major setback for India. Additionally, it could also put his coach, former Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Kashinath Naik, under the radar.

AFI’s new policies also hold the coaches accountable for any doping offense by the players. This situation isn't new for Naik, as two of his previous students, Davinder Singh Kang and Shivpal Singh, were also earlier sanctioned for using prohibited substances.

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