Ranjani Srinivasan has recently left the U.S. under controversy. The 37-year-old doctoral student from India, is a student at Columbia University. She had her student visa revoked by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in pursuit of allegations that she supported Hamas. This indirectly linked her with the terrorist list.
Reportedly, before her departure, Srinivasan thwarted federal immigration officials twice. According to the DHS, Srinivasan’s F-1 student visa was revoked on March 5, 2025. Due to her involvement in activities supporting Hamas.
Federal government officials did not elaborate on any evidence they had linking Srinivasan to the allegations above. The Trump administration wished to make a case that living and studying in the U.S. is a privilege, not a right.
Community and legal views
The allegations against Srinivasan have been hotly debated within the academic and legal circles. Protectors of civil liberties have raised concerns that free speech has been infringed upon. Subsequently, they pointed out that there was no transparency to support evidence that led to the revocation of her visa.
Proponents of tough-minded immigration policies would contend that any link to designated terrorist organizations warrants such actions.
Implications for International Students
Contrary to prior events, this further illuminates the vulnerable position of international students in the United States. Consequently, it complicates for those who are involved in political activism.
It helps to illustrate further that while national security measures may need attention, these must also be balanced with individual rights. Universities must help international students better understand the U.S. law concerning permissible activities.
Evasion of the Immigration Authorities
After the visa was revoked, immigration authorities were inclined to take action against Srinivasan. Reports say she escaped on two occasions before choosing to self-deport. However, details regarding the nature of such escapes remain in the dark, leading to questions about the efficacy of federal enforcement efforts.
Srinivasan used the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) Home App to self-deport. This is an app through which an individual can process his or her departure without interacting with authorities.
She was self-deported, as confirmed by the DHS, Han stated on this digital platform.
Columbia University’s Response
Columbia University acknowledged the situation but chose not to comment on individual student matters. While the university reaffirmed its commitment to free speech and lawful activism, it underscored the utmost importance of following the laws and regulations of the United States.
Srinivasan’s allegations have become the object of debate among academic and legal circles. Advocates for civil liberties are worried that free speech may have been compromised. Additionally, the evidence for the revocation of her visa lacks transparency.
On the other hand, supporters of strict immigration policy believe that any sympathies for terrorist organizations warrant such action.
As the U.S. scrutinizes foreign nationals residing within its borders, the number of similar incidents may increase with the civil discourse. Especially, what surrounds the balance between security and civil liberties sustained over the years.
