Hindus have thanked Alabama Governor Robert Bentley for “sincere apology for the tragic incident” and deep regret on the “unfortunate use of excessive force” by Madison Police Department on Hindu grandfather resulting in his partial paralysis.

Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada today, called it a step in the positive direction. Zed also welcomed Bentley’s assurance that “we will see that justice is done”.

Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, stressed the need of cultural competency training to first responders in Alabama and nationwide.

Rajan Zed pointed out that in view of increasing diversity of the country, first responders should be adequately trained in cultural appropriateness so that they understood and interpreted more effectively the actions-attitudes-behaviors of linguistically and culturally diverse people.

Zed indicated that many preventable tragedies could be avoided if we as Americans attempted to understand and interpret each other better. Despite our diverse backgrounds, we needed to reduce the communication and cultural barriers amongst us, Zed added.

Roughing-up of this Hindu grandfather by the police garnered exceptional attention worldwide.