In a significant development, Indian scholar Ranjani Srinivasan, a doctoral student at Columbia University, has left the United States after her visa was revoked by the Donald Trump administration. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed that Ranjani Srinivasan “self-deported” following allegations that she supported Hamas, a designated terrorist organization.
Ranjani Srinivasan was reportedly involved in pro-Palestinian demonstrations at Columbia University. The U.S. State Department revoked her F-1 student visa on March 5, 2025, citing her alleged advocacy for violence and terrorism. However, officials have not disclosed specific evidence linking her to such activities. She departed the country on March 11, with DHS releasing a video showing her at LaGuardia Airport with her luggage.
The case is part of a broader crackdown by the Donald Trump administration on foreign nationals involved in pro-Palestinian protests at U.S. universities. The Justice Department has been investigating whether Columbia University harbored undocumented immigrants, leading to searches at two campus residences by DHS agents. While no arrests were made during the searches, authorities have been actively pursuing individuals linked to last year’s demonstrations.
Another protester, Leqaa Kordia, a Palestinian woman who participated in similar protests, was arrested in Newark, New Jersey, for overstaying her visa. Columbia University stated that Kordia was not enrolled at the institution, but her involvement in protests outside the campus was noted.
Columbia University has faced increasing scrutiny from the Donald Trump administration, particularly over student and faculty protests against Israel’s military actions in Gaza. In response, the U.S. government has revoked federal grants and contracts worth $400 million, much of which was allocated for medical research.
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche emphasized that these actions align with the administration’s broader effort to combat antisemitism. President Donald Trump and other officials have accused some protesters of supporting Hamas, especially in the wake of the group’s October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.
The developments have sparked debates about free speech on college campuses and the limits of student activism. While supporters argue that revoking Ranjani Srinivasan’s visa was necessary to prevent extremist influences, critics question whether the administration is using immigration laws to suppress political dissent.
As investigations continue, DHS officials are reviewing further evidence, including surveillance footage and digital communications, to determine whether additional individuals will face legal action.
