One-year ban on Sarita Devi is not a big penalty: Vijender Singh

KOLKATA:: Star Indian boxer Vijender Singh today said the one-year AIBA ban on Sarita Devi was not a big penalty and it was actually a good decision since she was not banned for life.

Taking a disciplinary action, International Boxing Association (AIBA) slapped the ban on Sarita for refusing to accept her bronze medal during the podium ceremony at Incheon Asian Games.

Sarita, a mother of one, was also fined 1,000 Swiss francs (USD 1020) for her action.

"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.

"I don't think it's a big penalty. She is a good boxer... I respect her," the winner of a bronze medal at the Beijing Olympic Games, added.

Vijender was in the city for an MTV programme.