Santhi Soundarajan, an Indian middle-distance runner, initially gained national attention by winning a silver medal in the women’s 800 meters at the 2006 Asian Games in Doha, Qatar. However, following the event, she was subjected to a gender verification test, which she reportedly failed. As a result, she was stripped of her medal and faced a subsequent ban from competing in athletics.

The aftermath of this incident had a profound impact on Soundarajan’s life. She returned to her village, where she faced significant social ostracism and personal challenges. The emotional toll led her to a suicide attempt, from which she fortunately recovered.

In the years following, Soundarajan transitioned into a coaching role, aiming to support and mentor young athletes. Despite her contributions, she has reportedly struggled with financial instability and has sought recognition and support from sports authorities. In 2016, she filed a human rights complaint against the Athletics Federation of India and the Indian Olympic Association, alleging discrimination and seeking justice for her treatment.

Soundarajan’s case has sparked ongoing discussions about the ethics and implications of gender verification tests in sports, highlighting the complex interplay between biology, identity, and competitive fairness. Her experiences continue to resonate in debates over athlete rights and the policies governing gender in athletics.

As of January 2025, there have been no significant updates regarding Soundarajan’s case or changes in her personal circumstances.