The Hindu : Sport / Weightlifting : IWF’s decision on India delayed

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IWF’s decision on India delayed

Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI: The International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) stated on Friday that until all doping cases were “closed” there would not be a final decision on disciplinary sanctions against India.

The IWF Legal Counsel, Monika Ungar, stated in a communication that the cases of six Indian weightlifters who were reported for ‘positive’ dope tests were “pending under ‘results management’ and until all cases are closed there won’t be a final decision.”

Ms. Ungar also said the IWF Executive Board did not meet in Goyang City, South Korea, the venue of the ongoing World championships, on Friday and it would meet on Saturday.

The doping issue would be discussed on Saturday, according to the IWF media spokesman, Deszo Dobor, though it is to be seen whether any further progress would be made towards sanctioning Indian lifters.

Unless the ‘accused’ lifters plead guilty or waive their right to have a hearing, the IWF has to bring the cases before a hearing panel.

Once this process is completed and the lifters charged with anti-doping rule violations, as the case may be, then the IWF may impose sanctions against the National federation.

Three or more violations in a 12-month period, in tests conducted by international agencies, can lead to a suspension of up to two years and or a fine of at least $50,000.

Four or more additional violations in a 12-month period could result in a suspension of up to four years and exclusion from the next Olympic Games.

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