Daijiworld Media Network – Washington
Washington, April 19: The US Department of State has issued a stern warning to international students, including those from India, stating that any breach of American laws could lead to severe consequences, including deportation.
Margaret MacLeod, spokesperson for the US State Department, said the Trump administration is strictly enforcing immigration laws, including the Immigration and Nationality Act and the Alien Registration Act, reports PTI.
“If you follow the law, America offers opportunities. But those who break the law will face the consequences,” said MacLeod, responding to concerns about Indian students encountering visa issues.
Margaret MacLeod
Recently, several Indian students have reported that their F-1 student visas are being revoked—some due to participation in pro-Palestinian protests, others due to minor legal offences.
India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has taken note. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that the Indian government is in contact with the affected students and is offering assistance through its embassy and consulates in the US.
MacLeod did not comment on individual cases but underscored the importance of adhering to all US legal and visa regulations. She also addressed the broader issue of illegal immigration, urging those residing in the US unlawfully—including family members of Indian nationals—to return voluntarily to their home countries.
“There’s still an opportunity to return voluntarily,” she said, directing individuals to the Department of Homeland Security or the CBP One app for assistance with departure procedures.
MacLeod noted that voluntary return is preferable to facing stricter enforcement actions in the future.
Indian student numbers rise — But visas fall
Despite these challenges, over 330,000 Indian students were enrolled in US universities during the 2023–24 academic year—a 23% rise from the previous year—making India the largest source of international students in the US.
However, reports indicate that student visa approvals dropped by 30% in February 2025, the first month following former President Donald Trump’s return to office.
High-level talks & counterterrorism cooperation
US vice-president J D Vance, who is set to visit India on Monday, is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi before undertaking a private trip to Jaipur and Agra.
When asked about the recent deportation of Tahawwur Hussain Rana, accused in the 2008 Mumbai attacks, MacLeod confirmed that he had been extradited to India to stand trial.
“India and the US will continue to work together on counterterrorism,” she said.