This week, a federal judge halted the Trump administration’s attempt to deport 21-year-old Indian foreign student Krish Lal Isserdasani, providing him with significant relief. A few weeks before he was set to graduate, the University of Wisconsin–Madison computer engineering major’s F-1 student visa was suddenly and unexpectedly withdrawn.
After an episode of alleged disruptive conduct in November 2024, Isserdasani’s visa was revoked on April 4. After a fight outside a nearby tavern, he was briefly arrested, but he was never charged or found guilty. In spite of this, he faced the possibility of instant deportation once his visa was canceled and his record was deleted from the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVIS).
Court grants temporary protection
In support of Isserdasani, US District Judge William Conley issued a temporary restraining order against the Department of Homeland Security on April 15. “Given the amount of Isserdasani’s educational expenses and potential losses from leaving the United States without obtaining his degree, the court concludes he faces irreparable harm for which he has no adequate remedy at law,” said Judge Conley, who referred to the government’s actions as unfair and a violation of due process.
Impact on international students
More than 1,000 international students in the US have reportedly had their visas abruptly revoked under the Trump administration; Isserdasani’s situation is part of a concerning trend. In recent months, 40 students throughout the University of Wisconsin system and at least 26 at UW-Madison have had comparable effects. For alleged political participation or minor violations, many have been threatened with deportation.
