Columbia University protester arrested for visa violation

Leqaa Kordia, a Palestinian student at Columbia University, was arrested for overstaying her student visa. This follows the self-deportation of Ranjani Srinivasan, an Indian doctoral student accused of supporting Hamas. Kordia's visa was terminated in January 2022. Tensions are rising on campus as federal agents executed search warrants at two student residences. While university officials reported no arrests or seizures, many students expressed fear of being targeted by immigration authorities. Some students are hesitant to seek help due to concerns about retaliation. The recent arrests and searches have sparked protests and discussions among students and faculty about the university's independence amid pressure from the Trump administration. Many international students feel their rights to free speech are being restricted.