Washington: The United States has revoked more than 6,000 student visas this year as part of the Trump administration’s strict immigration measures.
Officials say most of the cancellations were due to students breaking U.S. laws or overstaying their visas. The government has also stepped up scrutiny of applicants’ social media activity, a move that critics argue is meant to silence dissent.
According to a State Department official, around 4,000 visas were canceled for law violations. Many involved students accused of assault, theft, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Another 200 to 300 visas were revoked over alleged links to terrorism.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said hundreds, if not thousands, of visas were pulled because people, including students, were involved in activities seen as going against American foreign policy interests.
Critics, however, say the crackdown violates free speech rights guaranteed under the First Amendment. They see the policy as part of a broader attempt to target students and immigrants critical of the government.
Earlier this year, U.S. diplomats were instructed to be extra cautious when dealing with visa applicants suspected of engaging in anti-American or political activities.
