A 31-year-old Sikh professor at Columbia University was attacked here by 25 to 30 youths who called him a terrorist.
Prabhjot Singh, a professor of international and public affairs, was attacked Saturday night in upper Manhattan just blocks away from his Harlem home while he was walking by a mob who called him "Osama" and "terrorist", the New York Daily News reported citing police.
The professor has reportedly published many articles on hate crimes against Sikhs in America.
"There was a group of 25 to 30 young men. One of them said, 'Get him, Osama', the report quoted Singh, who suffered a fractured jaw, as saying.
"I got punched directly in the face about three times."
Singh, who wears a turban and also sports a beard, was reportedly kicked after being pushed to the ground before passers-by intervened and saved him.
"I’m grateful to them,” said Singh, who is married and has a young son.
“It could have been a lot worse.”
According to the report, the attack happened around 8.15 p.m. Saturday while Singh and his friend were walking on a street.
The professor got badly injured and was taken to Mount Sinai Hospital, where he underwent surgery on his jaw.
“It’s incredibly sad,” Singh said.
“It’s not the neighbourhood I know. I work in this community. It’s just not American,” he added.
Investigation into the case is on.