Urgent Call for Discussion in Lok Sabha
New Delhi [India], April 2 (ANI): Congress MP Manish Tewari submitted an adjournment motion notice in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, urging a discussion on the sudden revocation of student visas issued to Indian nationals by US authorities.
In his notice, Tewari called for the suspension of Zero Hour, Question Hour, and other scheduled legislative business to address what he described as a matter of “urgent public importance.”
“I hereby give notice of my intention to seek leave to move a motion for the adjournment of the business of the House to discuss a matter of urgent public importance, that this House suspend Zero Hour, the relevant rules concerning Question Hour, and other scheduled business of the day to deliberate on the revocation of student visas issued to Indian students in the USA,” the notice read.
Impact on Students and Families
Tewari highlighted that a significant number of Indian students in the United States have had their visas revoked, leading to distress among students and their families, who have made substantial financial investments in their education.
“Recent reports indicate that a significant number of Indian students have had their visas revoked by US authorities. This development has caused considerable distress, not only for the students whose academic aspirations stand jeopardized but also for their families, who have made substantial financial investments, often through educational loans, to support their education in the United States,” the notice stated.
He also raised concerns about the abrupt nature of the visa cancellations, which have led to threats of deportation. He pointed out the lack of clear reasons for these revocations and the absence of a transparent grievance redressal mechanism, which has heightened anxiety among affected students and their families.
Diplomatic and Educational Implications
Tewari emphasized that the visa revocations have far-reaching consequences, not only for the students but also for India’s educational and diplomatic interests.
“Given the profound implications for the future of Indian students and the significant financial and emotional hardship faced by their families, I urge the Government to initiate immediate diplomatic engagement with US authorities to seek clarification on this matter. I also request that the House take up this issue for urgent discussion by suspending Zero Hour, Question Hour, and other scheduled business of the day to ensure that the rights and interests of Indian students studying overseas are effectively safeguarded,” he said.
Parliament Session and Other Legislative Matters
As the Parliament reconvenes today, legislative business suggests that Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju will move the Waqf Amendment Bill of 2025 for consideration and passage.
The bill seeks to amend the Waqf Act of 1995 to address challenges in the regulation and management of Waqf properties. The existing law has been criticized for issues such as mismanagement, corruption, and encroachments. (ANI)
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