I don't want to quit my job or boxing, says Vijender Singh

Last month, boxer Vijender Singh entered a new phase of his career, quitting the amateur circuit and turning professional by signing up with Queensbury Promotions. This decision has also put a spotlight on his equation with his current employers, the Haryana Police.

Singh may have to choose between his job as a deputy superintendent of police (DSP) with the state police force and his boxing career. Concerns have been raised about him maintaining dual income streams and not seeking permission from the police force about going pro.

On July 2, he filed for permission to go to UK for his training and enter into a contractual agreement with Queensbury Promotions.

"I have applied for Haryana police's permission. The Haryana government is supportive of sports so of course, these things will get sorted out soon. I am waiting for their response," Singh tells ETPanache.

He is back in India and will spar with trainer Lee Beard at a mall in Mumbai today, at an event organised by IOS Sports & Entertainment.

When contacted, Haryana DGP, YP Singhal says that the state government will have to take a decision on the matter. The file will be processed by the state home ministry department.

Speaking of Singh's role in the police force, he says, "Vijender has brought many laurels to the country. He was offered the job to encourage sportsmen."

Faced with a choice, what would Singh choose? "I would choose both. I don't want to quit my job. It is important for me. I don't want to quit my boxing career either," he says.

Apart from the permission issue, Singh's decision to turn pro has also attracted criticism as he won't represent India during the Olympics next year. To which he replies, "People who know about Indian sports systems appreciate my decision."