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New Delhi– As concerns mount over the United States’ mass deportations and a new advisory warning foreign students—especially from India—about the risk of losing their visa status for skipping classes or withdrawing from courses, a foreign policy expert has raised alarm over the broader sentiment surrounding immigration in the U.S.

Robinder Sachdev, an international affairs commentator, acknowledged that while the U.S. government’s advisory is technically justified, the wider environment has become increasingly unfriendly toward immigrants.

“On a procedural level, the U.S. is right—students on visas are expected to attend classes, maintain good academic standing, and fulfill the terms of their stay,” Sachdev told IANS. “Failure to comply is indeed a violation of visa conditions.”

However, he warned that the issue runs deeper than administrative compliance.

“The atmosphere in the U.S. has turned distinctly anti-immigrant. There’s a growing perception that no immigrant—be it a student or an H-1B worker—should be welcome. Under the Trump administration, students in particular were heavily scrutinized, especially those participating in political activities or protests,” he said. “Even small infractions like a traffic ticket can now be used as justification to revoke a visa.”

Sachdev noted that U.S. universities have been instructed to report any incidents or concerns involving international students. “Even minor allegations are being flagged. The government is proactively cancelling visas in such cases, making it a deeply concerning time for students from abroad,” he added.

The warning comes in the wake of recent deportation drives that have swept up many immigrants, including students. As a result, several U.S. universities have issued advisories urging international students to avoid traveling abroad, warning that re-entry could lead to visa complications or even denial.

The unease among international students reflects a broader shift in U.S. immigration policy—one that increasingly scrutinizes even those who are in the country legally, leaving many uncertain about their future. (Source: IANS)

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