The U.S. Justice Department is investigating Columbia University for allegedly concealing undocumented students involved in pro-Palestinian demonstrations. This investigation comes as federal pressure intensifies, including funding cuts due to perceived non-compliance with deportation efforts. Interim president Katrina Armstrong reassured the community of their commitment to uphold the law, while tensions surrounding antisemitism and academic freedoms continue at the university.
The U.S. Justice Department has initiated an investigation into Columbia University concerning allegations of concealing undocumented students amid a broader campaign to deport individuals involved in pro-Palestinian demonstrations on campus last year. The investigation was confirmed by a senior Justice Department official during a press briefing on Friday.
On Thursday evening, Department of Homeland Security agents executed search warrants at two university residences, but no arrests were made. Officials have revealed ongoing developments linked to two individuals connected to these protests, including a doctoral student who fled due to a visa revocation and a Palestinian woman arrested on visa overstay charges.
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche emphasized that the investigation reflects the administration’s commitment to combat antisemitism. Blanche stated, “Just last night, we worked with the Department of Homeland Security to execute search warrants from an investigation into Columbia University for harboring and concealing illegal aliens on its campus.” The inquiry is examining whether Columbia violated civil rights laws in its handling of previous incidents.
Interim university president Katrina Armstrong expressed concern over the presence of federal agents on campus, assuring that the university remains dedicated to supporting its community while upholding the rule of law. Her note stated, “I understand the immense stress our community is under… Columbia University will remain a place where the pursuit of knowledge is cherished and fiercely protected.”
Recent actions from the Trump administration have significantly impacted Columbia University, including the cancellation of $400 million in federal funding as a response to perceived insufficient action against critics of Israel’s military actions. The administration’s demands include changes to the admissions process and faculty control over certain departments.
Students and faculty involved in protests maintain that their actions do not equate to antisemitism, although some individuals have expressed feelings of unsafety due to anti-Israel sentiments. The campus community remains tense following the arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a notable Palestinian activist.
The Trump administration announced the visa revocation of Ranjani Srinivasan, an Indian doctoral student, for purportedly advocating violence, resulting in her self-deportation. Furthermore, Leqaa Kordia, a woman arrested in connection with a visa overstay, is currently in immigration detention, despite Columbia University disavowing any record of her as a student.
The Justice Department’s investigation into Columbia University centers around allegations of concealing undocumented students connected to pro-Palestinian protests. The inquiry reflects the administration’s aggressive stance on deportation and antisemitism. Columbia’s leadership remains under pressure following federal funding cuts while protests continue regarding academic freedoms and safety on campus. This ongoing investigation highlights the intersection of immigration policy, free speech, and institutional responsibility in the current sociopolitical climate.
Original Source: apnews.com
