Pramod Bhagat Suspended for 18 Months

Indian para-shuttler Pramod Bhagat, a Tokyo 2020 Paralympic gold medalist, has been suspended for 18 months due to anti-doping violations, specifically for three whereabouts failures within a 12-month period. The suspension, upheld by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) Appeals Division, will prevent Bhagat from competing in the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Bhagat's appeal against the initial CAS Anti-Doping Division decision was dismissed on July 29, 2024. This suspension is a significant setback for Bhagat, who has been a prominent figure in para-badminton and an inspiration to many, following his remarkable victory at the Tokyo Paralympics and multiple world titles. The news has been met with shock and disappointment among Indian sports enthusiasts, casting a shadow over Bhagat's illustrious career.