Despite Tuesday being the last day to apply for a B sample test, only two weightlifters out of the seven who tested positive recently have come forward with an official request.

“We have received applications from Harbhajan Singh (94kg) and Vicky Batta (56kg) for a B sample test. Three others — Rajesh Kumar (94kg), Shailaja Pujari (75kg) and Seepana Yamini (58kg) — have just sent us mails saying they wish to file for testing,” Indian Weightlifting Federation secretary BR Gulati told The Indian Express on Monday.

Clear rules

A player needs to deposit $500 for testing as well as state whether he/she wants the World Anti-Doping Agency to open the sample in his/her presence.

Gulati said he was unsure if the world body, the International Weightlifting Federation, would agree to an extension of the deadline. “It is upon them to decide if the delay is justified,” Gulati said. “We will forward the requests and and wait for a decision.

“It is possible that the lifters have a valid reason for the delay. For instance, Rajesh Singh, who is in the army, can be given more time if he is out on the field,” Gulati added.

Under the international body’s anti-doping policy, India, as a team, could face a suspension lasting upto two years, besides a fine of $50,000. The national body had earlier been banned twice — in 2004 and 2006 — as three or more lifters had tested positive in a calendar year each time.

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