Australian Universities Ban Indian Students From Six States
India Reacts to Australia Visa Crackdown on Indians, Says Visa Decisions Are Sovereign
In a measured and diplomatic response, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India addressed recent media reports highlighting an alleged Australia visa crackdown on Indian students, particularly those hailing from Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar.
During the weekly press briefing, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal was asked about the growing concerns over tightened visa scrutiny by Australia targeting Indian applicants from specific regions. “Visa matters are sovereign matters. Whether Australia wants to issue a visa to X or Y, it’s their prerogative. So that is how we look at it,” Jaiswal said, emphasizing the Indian government’s respect for the autonomy of foreign visa policies.
This response comes after the country’s opposition leader, Peter Dutton, unveiled a controversial proposal, unveiled on April 6 to significantly curb international student admissions. He proposed slashing student intake by 80,000 and reducing permanent migration by 25%, claiming these steps are necessary to combat Australia’s deepening housing crisis.
“ANNOUNCED: We will cap international student numbers and reduce permanent migration by 25%—freeing up nearly 40,000 homes in the first year,” Dutton declared on social media platform X.
Citing a 65% rise in international student numbers since the last election—jumping from 520,000 to over 850,000—Dutton argued that such influxes, combined with a 25% increase in national median rent, were making home ownership unattainable for many local students, especially in major cities.
Indian Students: Leading Amid Policy Shifts
Ironically, this heated political discourse comes at a time when Indian students have become the leading source of international student visas to Australia. According to recent immigration data from February 2025, India surpassed China in student visa approvals. Over 2,700 visas were granted to Indian students in February alone—up from 2,398 in January—pushing the total above 5,000 in just two months.
Experts attribute the steady rise to a blend of factors: Australia’s globally recognized education system, promising post-study career paths, and a vibrant multicultural environment that appeals to young Indians. Fields such as information technology, engineering, business management, and healthcare remain top choices for Indian enrollees.
Diplomatic Balance Amid Rising Numbers
Despite domestic political rhetoric in Australia, Indians continue to find opportunities and welcome at top Australian institutions. The MEA’s neutral tone signals a desire to maintain stable bilateral ties while supporting Indian citizens abroad.
“Every country has the right to regulate its borders and decide its immigration priorities. At the same time, we are confident that Indian talent will continue to be welcomed for its academic excellence and contribution to the Australian economy,” said a senior official familiar with Indo-Australian relations.
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