A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from enforcing a controversial policy that would have barred Harvard University from enrolling international students. The decision follows a lawsuit filed by Harvard in Boston federal court, accusing the administration of violating the First Amendment and acting in retaliation for the university’s refusal to yield to political pressure, reports Washington Post.
Harvard argued the move would inflict immediate harm on its academic programs and over 6,800 international students, many of whom play essential roles in research, teaching, and student life. The university warned that the loss of certification under the Student Exchange and Visitor Program would prevent it from admitting new international students for up to two years.
U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs issued a temporary injunction Friday, pausing the government’s action while the case proceeds. The Trump administration claimed the university fostered an unsafe campus and accused it of harboring “anti-American agitators,” as well as maintaining ties to the Chinese Communist Party.
In response, Harvard President Alan Garber said the school had implemented governance reforms and denounced the claims as politically motivated. He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to academic freedom and due process.
The Department of Homeland Security’s attempt stemmed from an April 16 demand by Secretary Kristi Noem for student data, allegedly linked to protests. Although Harvard responded with thousands of data points, DHS claimed the university failed to comply.
Former Harvard President Lawrence Summers called the policy “madness,” warning it could deter future international talent. The judge’s ruling ensures that, for now, Harvard can continue welcoming students from around the world while the legal battle unfolds.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
