The judge presiding over the lawsuit challenging the detention of Mahmoud Khalil in New Jersey denied the government’s motion to dismiss his petition, asserting jurisdiction over the case. Khalil, a permanent U.S. resident and pro-Palestinian activist facing deportation due to his actions at Columbia University, filed a petition claiming his detention violates his rights. The Justice Department stated that Khalil was in New Jersey for only a few hours and suggested moving the case to Louisiana. Khalil has been held at a Louisiana detention center since his arrest in March, despite not being charged with any crime. The government cited alleged misrepresentations by Khalil as additional grounds for his deportation, which Khalil’s attorney called “silly.” The judge in New Jersey ruled that the case falls under his jurisdiction and deserves careful review. Khalil’s attorneys believe the decision sends a message about government attempts to manipulate jurisdictions in immigration-related cases. They argue that Khalil’s detention is a punishment for his constitutionally protected speech and activism. The judge in New York initially reviewing the petition also found the allegations serious and prohibited Khalil’s deportation while the legal proceedings continue.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
