A U.S. District Court ruling on Friday has compelled the Trump administration to restore the SEVIS record of Ahwar Sultan, a graduate student from Ohio State University (OSU). Sultan, who hails from India and is pursuing a degree in comparative studies, filed a lawsuit in mid-April claiming that his SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) record was wrongfully terminated due to his participation in campus protests advocating for Palestinian rights.
The court’s decision requires the reinstatement of Sultan’s SEVIS record, which is essential for maintaining his legal status and ability to re-enter the United States. Sultan’s SEVIS termination had significant consequences, as it effectively barred him from attending classes, working, or traveling, while also putting him at risk of removal from the country.
Legal Uncertainty and Risks of Deportation
Federal Judge Tanya S. Chutkan, in her ruling, highlighted the precarious situation Sultan faces as a result of the government’s actions. She described the circumstances as a “catch-22” in which Sultan is left in limbo, uncertain of his legal standing. He cannot continue his education or employment because his SEVIS record was canceled, yet he is unsure whether to leave the U.S. immediately to avoid potential deportation. Chutkan pointed out the government’s refusal to clarify whether Sultan is accruing unlawful presence, which would further jeopardize his situation.
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In her opinion, Chutkan emphasized that the risk to Sultan from this uncertainty outweighed any potential harm to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from temporarily reinstating his SEVIS record while the case proceeds.
Sultan’s Protest and Arrest Background
The controversy surrounding Sultan’s visa status stems from his involvement in a pro-Palestinian demonstration on OSU’s campus on April 25, 2024. Sultan, along with 15 other students, was arrested during the protest, although the charges against him were later dismissed after he completed community service. The termination of his SEVIS record was initially linked to his participation in the protest, with OSU notifying Sultan that his record was deactivated due to his identification in a criminal background check.
However, Chutkan criticized the basis for Sultan’s SEVIS termination, questioning the reasoning behind it and suggesting that the decision might have been arbitrary. She pointed out that OSU’s notification to Sultan did not appear to be the result of a well-reasoned process, as there was no clear connection between his protest activities and the legal grounds for terminating his SEVIS record.
Legal and University Challenges Ahead
Despite the court’s order, Sultan remains in a state of legal uncertainty. He expressed concern that Ohio State University may not fully comply with the ruling and may continue to defer to vague directives from ICE regarding his status. Sultan’s ability to resume his academic work at OSU depends on whether the university acknowledges the federal court’s decision and reinstates his access to campus resources.
Sultan’s attorney, Jana Al Akhras, and other advocates continue to push for clarity regarding his legal status. Sultan has received support from faculty and students at OSU, with many expressing solidarity after he was detained during a press conference held to update the public on the lawsuit.
A Glimmer of Hope Amidst Legal Struggles
Sultan expressed relief at the court’s decision but also acknowledged the ongoing challenges he faces in the coming weeks. The ruling has given him a sense of hope, but he emphasized that the road to full resolution remains uncertain. As he waits for his SEVIS record to be reinstated, Sultan remains concerned about the university’s response to the court’s order and whether he will be allowed to return to his studies and work.
“After being isolated for weeks, it’s encouraging to see familiar faces and receive support from my professors,” Sultan said. “But the struggle continues. The question remains whether the administration will follow the court’s order or continue to comply with unclear ICE directives.”
