The Karnataka High Court in Bengaluru has dismissed an appeal filed by two Nigerian students who sought an extension of their Indian student visas and release from a foreigners’ detention centre. The applicants, Obinna Okafor and John Vandefan, were challenging an earlier judgment that had already rejected their claims.

In a ruling delivered by a division bench led by Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C. M. Poonacha, the court upheld the previous decision of August 14, 2025. The judges ruled that foreign nationals do not have a legal right to demand the issuance or renewal of an Indian visa, stressing that visa matters fall under the sovereign powers of the Indian state.

The court explained that constitutional rights such as freedom of movement and residence apply only to Indian citizens. It added that authorities are not required to give reasons when refusing or cancelling visas. The judges also noted that the visa cancellations were linked to allegations of drug-related activities and impersonation involving the use of another person’s passport.

While the appellants argued that their detention began before their visas expired and violated due process, the court disagreed. It pointed out inconsistencies in their student status and ruled that once a visa is cancelled, there is no enforceable right to remain in the country. The appeal was therefore dismissed in full.