Indian Student’s Deportation Halted by US Judge Weeks Before Graduation from Wisconsin University

US Court Intervenes to Protect Indian Student from Deportation Before Graduation

In a significant legal intervention, a US federal judge has blocked the deportation of 21-year-old Indian student Krish Lal Isserdasani, just weeks before he was scheduled to graduate from the University of Wisconsin–Madison with a degree in computer engineering.

According to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Isserdasani’s F-1 student visa was unexpectedly revoked on April 4, only a month before his graduation. His legal team, led by attorney Shabnam Lotfi, filed for an emergency temporary restraining order, which was granted by Judge William Conley on April 15.

Visa Revocation Sparks Legal Battle

Isserdasani’s SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) record had been removed without prior notice or explanation, effectively cancelling his visa. The court order notes that he was not given any opportunity to respond, defend himself, or clarify any possible misunderstandings before the revocation.

“This is a serious breach of due process,” the order stated.

Arrest Without Charges

The case stems from a November 2024 incident, when Isserdasani was arrested for a suspected misdemeanor involving a minor dispute outside a bar. However, the Dane County District Attorney declined to file charges, and no court appearance was ever required.

Despite this, the Department of Homeland Security moved forward with terminating his visa, prompting the emergency legal response.

Judge Finds Merit in Student’s Claim

In his ruling, Judge Conley said that Isserdasani had not been convicted of any crime, and that his claim of wrongful termination had a “reasonable likelihood of success.” A hearing on a preliminary injunction is scheduled for April 28.

A Larger Problem?

Attorney Lotfi noted that this is possibly one of the first major wins for international students affected by sudden SEVIS terminations. An estimated 1,300 students across the US may have faced similar actions, often without explanation.

“We’re grateful the court upheld justice,” said Lotfi’s colleague Veronica Sustic. “The government provided no legal justification for these visa cancellations, and the court rightly intervened.”

This case may now serve as a precedent for similar legal challenges filed by international students who suddenly find themselves facing deportation despite having done nothing wrong.