(a) whether the sports persons are involved in drug peddling and smuggling as reported in Media recently;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Government is planning to implement stringent measures against guilty sports persons; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
THE MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR
YOUTH AFFAIRS AND SPORTS (SHRI JITENDRA SINGH)
(a) & (b): Media recently carried reports of involvement of some sportspersons in drug peddling and smuggling
in Punjab. As per information received from the Punjab Police, they have filed FIRs against a few
sportspersons viz. Jagdish Bhola, an Arjuna Awarddee Wrestler, Ram Singh, international Boxing Player
and Ravi Deol, national level boxer. Ram Singh has been arrested. Jagdish Bhola and Ravi Deol have
been evading arrest. Seizure of some drugs has been effected. Investigation by the Punjab Police is
in progress.
(c)&(d): The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 provides for stringent action against
the persons found guilty of drug peddling and smuggling. The sports-persons found guilty would also be
debarred from participating in sports activities.