NADA Cracks Down on Illegal Doping Network in Delhi’s Najafgarh

New Delhi: In a major anti-doping operation, the National Anti Doping Agency (NADA) led a joint crackdown on an illegal supply chain of performance-enhancing drugs in Najafgarh, targeting the distribution of substances banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

The raid, conducted by a task force including officials from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India and local police, was based on intelligence inputs from NADA’s Intelligence and Investigations unit. Authorities identified an individual, Gaurav Vats, allegedly linked to the sale of prohibited substances to athletes.

According to officials, samples procured during the investigation were tested at the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU), which confirmed the presence of WADA-prohibited substances. The analysis also revealed contamination with additional banned compounds, raising serious concerns about safety and deliberate adulteration.

The premises, operating under the name “Gaurav Vats Nutrition,” were found to be running without mandatory licenses required under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and the Food Safety and Standards Act.

This crackdown comes shortly after WADA president Witold Banka visited India and stressed the urgent need to curb the illegal trade of performance-enhancing drugs. During his visit, Banka held high-level meetings with stakeholders including Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and officials from investigative agencies.

Officials indicated that more such intelligence-based raids are likely as part of a broader effort to dismantle doping networks. NADA reiterated its commitment to protecting athletes and maintaining the integrity of sport by targeting illegal supply chains.

The operation marks a significant step in addressing the growing concern over the availability and misuse of banned substances in India’s sports ecosystem.