Mr. Singh gave the following statement to the Sikh Coalition to share with reporters and the wider community: “I am thankful to law enforcement, the Sikh Coalition, and all those in the community who have offered their strength in this difficult time. No one should experience what I did--but if they do, I hope they receive the same overwhelming amount of support and quick, professional action by the authorities in response.”
Hassanain is being charged with Assault in the Third Degree as a Hate Crime, Assault in the Third Degree, and Aggravated Harassment in the Second Degree, and will be arraigned on Saturday, January 15. In the meantime, the Sikh Coalition will continue to stay engaged on this case. As we did in the aftermath of the attack, we will continue to assist Mr. Singh in his correspondence with law enforcement and ensure that all relevant details are conveyed between all parties. Additionally, we are grateful for the support of the New York City Police Department’s Hate Crimes Task Force in this case.
In the Sikh Coalition’s experience, taxi and rideshare drivers from our community are at a heightened risk of hateful assault. In recent years, we have provided free legal aid to
multiple Sikh drivers like Mr. Singh who were attacked in various places across the country. Accordingly, we continue to provide
know-your-rights resources proactively to help the community stay safe. If you or someone you know has experienced bigotry--violent or otherwise--be sure to
contact our legal team for free help.
As always, the Sikh Coalition urges you to practice your faith fearlessly.