New Delhi: Weightlifter Pratima Kumari today (Oct 14, 2004) filed a petition in the High Court challenging the life ban imposed on her by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).

"We have filed a petition against the ban imposed on her for taking performance enhancing drugs," her counsel Sushil Salwan said.

Pratima was banned for life along with two other lifters Sanamacha Chanu and S Sunaina by the IOA last month after an inquiry headed by K P Singh Deo. National Coach Pal Singh Sandhu was also slapped with a life ban.

Pratima had tested positive for testosterone during the Athens Olympic Games in August.