Telugu Groups Support Students Facing SEVIS Revocation
Community Unites to Aid Impacted Students
In response to the SEVIS revocation of numerous Indian students by US authorities, the Telugu community is extending help to those affected. Legal assistance, financial aid, and counseling are among the various ways multiple social groups and individuals from the community are supporting students in dealing with the consequences.
Global Telangana Association (GTA)
- Helping students cover legal expenses
- Hosting daily symposiums and guidance sessions in-person in Washington DC and virtually
- Addressing each case on an individual basis
- Organizing emotional counseling sessions for students facing uncertainty
“We receive up to 100 distress calls daily,” said Vishnu Kalavala, president of GTA. “The cases vary from students facing SEVIS revocation due to alcohol-related driving offenses, shoplifting, speeding, or physical altercations with roommates resulting in manhandling.”
Telugu Association of North America (TANA)
- Compiled a team of lawyers from within the community to handle students’ cases pro bono
- Assisting students in filing lawsuits or reinstatement applications
Filing a reinstatement application can cost a student between $1,000 (Rs 85,775 approx) and $2,000 (Rs 1,71,550 approx).
American Telugu Association (ATA)
- Connected with Designated School Officials (DSOs) across various universities
- Requested DSOs to direct affected Indian students to ATA for assistance
- Addressing each case individually
- Establishing a long-term support system through a proposed ‘Center of Excellence’
For many students, these associations have become a lifeline. One such student shared his experience with TOI, saying, “I have no family here. The community associations were my only option.”
