India slams the US for radio-tagging of students duped by 'sham' university

BANGALORE: India on Sunday slammed US authorities for placing radio-trackers around the ankles of some Indian students duped by a 'sham' university in California, the Times of India reported.

"We demand the US government initiate severe action against those officials responsible for this inhuman act. Indian students are not criminals. The radio collars should immediately be removed," external affairs minister S.M. Krishna said.

Throughout Saturday, Indian television channels showed images of Indian students with radio trackers around one ankle, which was apparently done to monitor their movements. This has triggered a wave of anger through the Indian community.

About 1,555 students of Tri-Valley University, 90 percent of them from India, are facing deportation following the closure of the university in Pleasanton on charges of selling student visas.

Some of the students who approached Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to seek help were placed under ISAP (Intense Supervision and Appearance Programme) and put in removal proceedings.

US deputy chief of mission Donald Lu was called to the external ministry and apprised of India's concerns over the measure.

India's foreign minister promised legal and consular help to the students.

(BNO NEWS )