Hyderabad: Tensions between the US government and Harvard University have intensified after secretary of state Marco Rubio announced a formal investigation into the university’s ability to sponsor student exchange visas under the Student Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). “Visa sponsorship is a privilege and sponsors whose conduct tarnishes our nation’s interests will lose that privilege,” Rubio stated on social media.
The department of homeland security (DHS) had already terminated Harvard’s SEVP certification in May. Earlier this month, DHS said it would issue administrative subpoenas to the university as part of its inquiry.

The announcement has triggered concern among Indian students across the US, who fear the move could ripple beyond Harvard and could affect all universities. “It’s not just about Harvard. We’re already seeing delays in visa interviews. If other universities come under scrutiny, it could be catastrophic,” said K. Dinesh, a student based in Chicago. He added, “Previously, even minor offences like signal jumps and misdemeanours, which happened years ago, were used by ICE to deport students. Now, they might actually do anything to deport us.”

Rajeswar Rao, a consultant officer from Hyderabad, said, “The new administration has taken a hard line against immigrants. Targeting Harvard for its support of international students is a clear signal of its stance.”
He added that American universities earn millions of dollars through international student enrolment. “They will resist any move that threatens this revenue stream. But if the government cracks down further, students at other institutions could also face consequences.”

Responding to the developments, Harvard spokesperson Jason Newton said, “Harvard continues to enroll and sponsor international scholars, researchers and students, and will protect its international community and support them as they apply for U.S. visas and travel to campus this fall.” He further said that the action against their university was “yet another retaliatory step” taken by the Trump administration to violate Harvard’s First Amendment rights.