Sarita Devi Ban is Not Severe, Feels Vijender Singh
Boxer Sarita Devi was banned for a year by AIBA for her conduct during Asian Games. Vijender Singh feels the duration is not too long and will help her recover from injury as well.
Olympic bronze medal-winning boxer Vijender Singh on Thursday said the International Boxing Association (AIBA)'s decision to ban female boxer L. Sarita Devi for a year was not a big penalty and the punishment will pass swiftly.
The 29-year-old Sarita was also fined 1,000 Swiss francs ($1020) for refusing to accept her 2014 Asian Games bronze medal October 1. (Government to ask AIBA to reconsider ban)
"It is a good decision by AIBA. Initially, there was speculation that it will be a life ban. One year will pass very quickly. I heard she is injured so she will recover also," Vijender said here. (After ban, Sarita Devi vows to win Olympic medal)
"I don't think it's a big penalty. She is a good boxer... I respect her."
Singh was here with the other three judges of "MTV Roadies X2" - Esha Deol, Karan Kundra and Rannvijay Singh.
The poster boy of Indian boxing also batted for insurance schemes for sportspersons which could stand them in good stead in case of injuries.
"The governments should think about some insurance for injuries to sportspersons. There should be some sort of scheme. That is one of our demands," he said.