AIFF goes overboard over Sanjay Sen's comments, bans him for 8 games

THE AIFF have dealt a major blow to league leaders Mohun Bagan by suspending their head coach for the rest of the I-League.

Sanjay Sen, in the heat of the moment after the AFC Champions League qualifier match against Tampine Rovers, made a remark about the AIFF that did not sit well with the overlords in Delhi. Speaking on the congested fixtures of Mohun Bagan, Sen said that AIFF had failed to take care of the players and it was an organization that had "sold out" to certain interests.

A disciplinary proceeding was opened against Sen and today he was summoned to Delhi to make his case. Sen sent a written statement on account of illness. The decision came: the I-League winning coach has been suspended for 8 matches, along with a hefty fine of Rs 10 lakhs.

This means that Sen will not be seen at the sidelines during the rest of Bagan's I-League matches. And he will also miss the first round of the Federation Cup. He will only be able to be at the bench during the Mariners' matches at the AFC Cup.

The decision came as a shock to many as the extent of the punishment appears to be extremely exaggerated for a reflex comment. Before this, Sen had already apologised for his comment, in a written reply to AIFF's show-cause. Even while speaking to the press, Sen acknowledged that he should not have used those words. Choosing to dish out a severe punishment like this, AIFF have Mohun Bagan's quest to win the I-League for the second season in a row.

Sen had recently said he would accept whatever decision AIFF takes regarding this matter. He or Mohun Bagan are yet to react to the verdict.