The Indian government has advised its students in the US to follow American laws after the arrest of researcher Badar Khan Suri and the visa revocation of student Ranjini Srinivasan. Suri a postdoctoral fellow at Georgetown University, was accused of spreading “Hamas propaganda,” while Columbia University student Srinivasan lost her visa for participating in pro-Palestine protests. Instead of challenging the decision she self-deported to Canada on March 11.
India’s External Affairs Ministry spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, said neither of them had sought help from Indian embassies. He emphasized that just as India expects foreign nationals to respect its laws, Indian citizens abroad must comply with local regulations.
The US has intensified action against students involved in pro-Palestine protests, with former President Donald Trump calling such individuals “terrorist sympathizers” and threatening deportations. US authorities want to remove Suri, but a court has temporarily blocked his deportation.
Jaiswal assured that Indian consulates and embassies in the US are available to assist students facing difficulties. He also reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening educational ties with the US.