Indian Students in the US Must Follow Local Laws, Says MEA Amid Controversies

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has reiterated that Indian students in the US must comply with local laws. This statement follows the detention of Badar Khan Suri and the self-deportation of Ranjani Srinivasan amid allegations of support for Palestinian causes. The Indian embassies are prepared to assist students facing issues, although those involved did not seek help. The actions taken by US authorities have raised concerns among Indian students.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has emphasized that Indian students in the United States are required to adhere to local laws, following recent detentions related to their alleged support for Palestinian causes. This stance was communicated after the arrest of Badar Khan Suri, a postdoctoral fellow, and the self-deportation of Ranjani Srinivasan, an Indian student who faced scrutiny due to her activism.

The MEA spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, expressed that the Indian embassy and consulates in the US are ready to assist students in need, although noted that both students had not sought help. Suri was apprehended in Virginia by the Department of Homeland Security, while Srinivasan reportedly left the US for Canada amid allegations of involvement in pro-Hamas activities.

Jaiswal reiterated that compliance with local laws is crucial for foreign nationals, stressing that India expects the same from its incoming foreign students. Srinivasan’s alleged protest activities have been contested by her in media interviews, claiming she did not participate in any such actions.

The MEA underscored the importance of the growing number of Indian students in the US and their contribution to educational partnerships. Jaiswal mentioned that about 300,000 Indian students are currently enrolled in American universities, with many in STEM fields, contributing significantly to the US economy.

The US government’s actions against the two students are considered part of a broader crackdown on individuals perceived to support Palestinian causes, raising alarm among the Indian student community. Recently, a US district court ruled against Suri’s deportation, asserting that he cannot be removed from the country without court permission, despite allegations against him regarding ties to Hamas.

In summary, the Indian government’s position on compliance with local laws for students abroad reinforces the importance of lawful conduct among Indian nationals in the United States. The ongoing scrutiny related to Palestinian activism has raised concerns, prompting the Indian MEA to offer support while highlighting the significant contributions of Indian students to the US educational landscape and economy.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com