Alabama Governor Robert Bentley has apologized to India over an attack by police against an Indian man. 

Bentley said authorities used "excessive force" on 57-year-old Sureshbhai Patel earlier this month, causing him partial paralysis, according to The Washington Post.

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The police officer accused of throwing Patel to the ground, has been fired and arrested. The officer had pleaded not guilty to assault charges.

Patel, who had just arrived in the U.S., had filed a case against his attacker, citing racial discrimination as a major factor in the assault, the report said.

Initial investigation revealed that Patel was strolling around the neighborhood where his son lives when authorities received a call from a neighbor who reported about a suspicious person.

A video recording from the police car showed Patel walking away as the officers approached him. The situation heated up and police were seen shoving him to the ground.

The Indian man sustained serious injuries, causing his leg to be paralyzed. Patel, who was discharged from the hospital on Monday, needs to undergo regular rehabilitation for his complete recovery.

Bentley has sent an apology letter to Indian General Consul Ajit Kumar. In the letter, the governor expressed his deep regrets over the tragic assault and to the citizens of India who live and work in Alabama.

The governor vowed to remain on top of the situation and closely monitor developments surrounding the investigation.

Madison police had likewise expressed remorse to Patel and his family over the deplorable action of its men, the report stated.

TagsAlabama, police assault, Indian man, Sureshbhai Patel, anti-police sentiment