Governor of the US state Alabama, Robert Bentley has apologised to Consul General of India in Atlanta, Ajit Kumar, for the attack suffered by Indian national Sureshbhai Patel by an American policeman, adding that he would see to it that justice is done.
On the day of the incident, Patel on being questioned by Madison Police Officer Eric Sloan Parker, verbally stated that he could not speak English. The officer then slammed the 57-year-old to the ground to detain him, resulting in the Indian national being left with partial paralysis and in need of spinal surgery.
According to official sources, Bentley, in a letter to Kumar dated February 17, stated that he acknowledges the concern shared by India.
"I deeply regret the unfortunate use of excessive force by the Madison Police Department on Sureshbhai Patel and for the injuries sustained by Patel. I sincerely hope that Patel continues to improve and that he will regain the full use of his legs," his letter read.
"I will see to it that justice is done arising from the use of excessive force under the colour of state law upon a citizen of India," it added.
Bentley has also instructed the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency to commence an investigation parallel to the one being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
This move came a day after Kumar and Bentley met, with the former conveying the deep concern of the people and Government of India over the illegal and excessive use of force on the senior Indian national.
Meanwhile, Consulate in Atlanta continues to be in continuous touch with Patel's family to ensure that that all concerns and needs are addressed on a speedy and urgent basis. Consular officials have also assured that they will continue to pursue the matter in close coordination with relevant US authorities.
