Strict punishment is solution of doping: Olympian boxer Akhil Kumar

After two athletes were banned by the NADA over failing the dope test, Olympian boxer Akhil Kumar on Friday said that the strict punishment is the solution to avoid happening of such cases.

The boxer said that the Sports Authority of India (SAI) officials and coaches always aware players about that and still they do such activities.

"SAI officials always inform athletes and there is a plan of government to spread awareness. Coaches are also taught about it and coaches are also giving information to their students. See everyone is aware but they give excuse after tested positive," Akhil told ANI.

The 38-year-old pugilist further said the new-generation athletes spend much time on social media but they can't have enough time to be aware of doping.

"I often see boxers and athletes they are using social networking sites so why can't they google about the medicine they are taking. There are qualified doctors and physio also with the team they can easily consult with them," Akhil said.

"It's very easy to ask the doctor that I am an athlete please see that there is no steroid in the medicine so the doctor will take care of it. But you have to inform, you have to discuss not just using the social network all the time and not to think about them," he added.

Akhil said that players do doping to get easy name and fame. If players do such things they have to face punishment.

"See it is also because of the name and fame they want quick things that's why it is happening. You are going to be a role model of aspiring athletes and if you will do all such things then what you will be known as. It is simple when you win any tournament and gets the trophy and prize you feel happy," Akhil said.

"Similarly, if you have done anything wrong then you have to face punishment. Ultimately coaches have to educate and for athletes also there should be awareness programme time to time from NADA so that all will be educated," he added.

The National Anti Doping Agency (NADA) on December 11 banned shooter Ravi Kumar for two years for failing in dope test.

In another case, boxer Sumit Sangwan failed the dope test after being tested positive for a banned substance.