In an interview with one of the leading news channels of the country, the dope-tainted shot-putter Inderjeet Singh opened up about the injustice he alleges has been meted out to him by people in authority. Speaking to NDTV, Inderjeet broke down with hundreds of people watching on national television, and claimed innocence.
With the ongoing controversy surrounding Narsingh Yadav, India's largest ever contingent is facing rocky times as two Olympians have been associated with illegal doping within the span of a week. According to Inderjeet however, he is only concerned with securing a medal and doing his country proud. He suspects a conspiracy and has appealed to the Prime Minister to intervene and ensure that justice is done.
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Also read: Reports: Shot putter Inderjeet Singh tests positive for banned substance
Inderjeet Singh referred to his economically backward background, alluding to the time he had to sell his family home to be able to secure funds for training, and brushed off reports that suggested he had been avoiding dope tests. But with the contingent set to leave tomorrow, this scandal is certainly a setback to what was widely seen as India's best ever chance at the quadrennial games.
"This is a conspiracy and there is something wrong in it. This will be checked by the doctors, though. I don't want to comment on it but whoever has tried to raise their voice in this country, they are forced to shut up," said Inderjeet.
The 28-year old's A sample returned with discouraging results, testing positive for a banned substance. He has been informed by the National Anti-Doping Agency that he has the option of sending out a second B-sample which must be done within the next seven days.
Inderjeet asserts that he has never intentionally or unintentionally indulged in any illegal activity. "My sample has been tampered with. Why would a player take something which is not good for his health," he added.
If the B-sample tests positive too, Inderjeet Singh could be facing a four-year ban under the new WADA regulations in addition to missing out the Rio Olympics. Although he says it is too early to say anything for sure, he is ready to fight for as long as it takes to redeem himself in the eyes of the countrymen who have come out in support of him.
India's sports fans have been following both the doping allegations with interest mixed with outrage. In the case of Narsingh Yadav, the general consensus among the average Indian sports enthusiast is that it was an elaborate ploy to prevent Yadav from participating in the Olympics. In the case of Inderjeet Singh, the popular opinion has also been similar.
Both athletes are viewed as two of India's medal hopes. The shot putter from Punjab is the reigning Asian Champion in his event. Needless to say, this is a difficult time for him.
