In the 2004 World Cup in Bangkok, Rathore had tested positive for 'A' sample, but the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) cleared him after the double-trap ace returned negative for his 'B' sample. The surfacing of the issue after a gap of nine years has surprised Rathore, who felt it was the handiwork of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) whose April 6 elections were declared "null and void" by the Delhi High Court last month.

NRAI challenged the decision of the single judge who had allowed the plea of Rathore that the election was a "sham and be quashed" as he was denied an opportunity to contest. "The events of today are a clear attempt to defame me to divert attention from Hon HC decision of nullifying NRAI elections. To rake up a non issue from 9 years earlier is vendetta and a last ditch attempt to protect the stranglehold over the NRAI," Rathore said in a statement.