Glasgow: India’s campaign at the Commonwealth Games 2026 has suffered an early setback, with judoka Arun Kumar withdrawn after failing an out-of-competition dope test.
🧪 Positive test leads to suspension
The 21-year-old, who competes in the -73kg categoryhas been handed a provisional suspension by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA).
- He tested positive for an anabolic steroid
- The test was conducted out of competition
- Officials confirmed immediate withdrawal from the squad
Arun had recently competed at the Qingdao Grand Prix and was seen as a promising medal contender.
📉 Impact on India’s judo contingent
India had initially selected a 14-member judo team (7 men and 7 women). Arun’s withdrawal reduces the squad strength just days before departure for Glasgow.
- Team scheduled to leave: July 27
- Judo events begin: July 31
Despite the setback, the team will still look to build on its previous success.
🥇 Past performance & medal hopes
At the last edition (Birmingham 2022), India’s six-member judo team won:
- 🥈 2 silver medals
- 🥉 1 bronze medal
Among the key athletes this time is Tulika Maan, who will aim to upgrade her silver medal performance in the 78kg category.
🏋️ Another setback: Weightlifting quota cut
The challenges don’t end there for India. Weightlifting has also taken a hit:
- Dilbagh Singh withdrawn
- India’s quota reduced from 16 to 11 lifters
- Reason: multiple Anti-Doping Rule Violations (ADRVs) during qualification
🇮🇳 Overall contingent update
India’s total contingent size has now dropped:
- From 126 athletes → 124 athletes
- Earlier reduction also included para-swimmer Tejas Nandakumar (classification criteria)
⚠️ Why this matters
- Raises concerns about doping control and compliance
- Impacts India’s medal chances in judo and weightlifting
- Puts added pressure on remaining athletes to deliver
Conclusion
The withdrawal of Arun Kumar is a significant setback for India just before the Commonwealth Games 2026 begin. Along with quota cuts in weightlifting, it highlights ongoing challenges around anti-doping compliance.
Despite these hurdles, India will look to regroup quickly and focus on strong performances across disciplines in Glasgow.
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