Krish Lal Isserdasani, a computer engineering student at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, was on track to graduate in early May when his F-1 visa was abruptly cancelled on April 4. Without prior notice or an opportunity to respond, his record was removed from the government’s Student and Exchange Visitor Programme (SEVIS), placing him at risk of deportation.
Legal Intervention Brings Relief
Attorney Shabnam Lotfi filed a request for a temporary restraining order, arguing that Isserdasani was denied due process. On April 15, US District Judge William Conley issued an order blocking the Department of Homeland Security from revoking his visa or detaining him. A hearing on the preliminary injunction is scheduled for April 28.
No Criminal Charges Filed
The visa cancellation followed an incident in November 2024, when Isserdasani was arrested for suspected disorderly conduct after a dispute outside a bar. However, the local District Attorney decided not to press charges, and he was never summoned to court. The judge emphasized that Isserdasani had not been convicted of any crime.
Wider Impact on International Students
The court noted that Isserdasani’s challenge against the visa cancellation had a “reasonable likelihood of success.” According to attorney Lotfi, this could become a significant case for international students whose SEVIS records were suddenly terminated without legal explanation. Reports suggest that nearly 1,300 students across the US have faced similar issues.
A Step Toward Accountability
Lotfi’s legal team praised the ruling, stating that the government failed to present any legal basis for the termination of these student statuses. The court’s intervention may offer hope to many other international students facing unexplained visa disruptions.
Conclusion
The case of Krish Lal Isserdasani highlights concerns over transparency and due process in handling international student visas. With legal protections now in place, the upcoming hearing could determine not just his future, but also influence how such cases are treated across the country.
