In a significant development, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, under the leadership of Secretary Kristi Noem, has taken action against students at Columbia University for their involvement in activities supporting Hamas, a designated terrorist organization. This action underscores the serious consequences of advocating violence and terrorism while residing in the United States.
Among those affected is Ranjani Srinivasan, an Indian national who was pursuing her doctorate in Urban Planning at Columbia University. Srinivasan had her F-1 student visa revoked on March 5, 2025, due to her involvement in activities that supported terrorist actions. Following the revocation, the Department of Homeland Security documented her self-deportation using the CBP Home App on March 11. This app allows individuals to manage their immigration status and make arrangements for their departure from the country.
In another case, Leqaa Kordia, a Palestinian student from the West Bank, was arrested by ICE HSI Newark officers for overstaying her expired F-1 visa. Kordia’s visa had officially terminated on January 26, 2022, due to lack of attendance at her educational institution. Her previous involvement in pro-Hamas protests at Columbia University in April 2024 had already drawn scrutiny and led to her earlier arrest.
Secretary Noem addressed the actions taken against these students, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the responsibilities that come with a student visa. She stated, “It is a privilege to be granted a visa to live and study in the United States of America. When you advocate for violence and terrorism, that privilege should be revoked, and you should not be in this country. I am glad to see one of the Columbia University terrorist sympathizers use the CBP Home app to self-deport.”
This recent crackdown by the Department of Homeland Security highlights the government's commitment to maintaining national security and upholding the integrity of the visa system. Students and foreign nationals are reminded of the importance of complying with U.S. laws and regulations, especially those governing immigration and student visas.
