MIT Crackdown: Indian-Origin Student Megha Vemuri Banned Over Pro-Palestine Speech on May 29

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has sparked controversy after barring Megha Vemuri, the Class of 2025 president, from attending its graduation commencement ceremony. The decision came after Vemuri delivered an unapproved pro-Palestine speech during the OneMIT Commencement Ceremony on May 29.

Her speech, which criticized MIT’s research ties with Israeli institutions, led to cheers from classmates, some waving Palestinian flags. However, MIT officials deemed her actions a violation of campus expression rules, resulting in her ban from the graduation event.

Megha Vemuri pursued a triple major at MIT in computer science, neuroscience, and linguistics. Her academic background reflects a strong interdisciplinary approach, combining technology, cognitive science, and language studies.

What Did Megha Vemuri Say?

During her speech, Vemuri wore a Keffiyeh scarf, a symbol of Palestinian solidarity, and accused MIT of complicity in Gaza’s crisis. She stated:
“MIT is aiding and abetting [Israel] with its assault on the Palestinian people.”

She referenced a recent student vote urging MIT to sever research ties with Israeli institutions, highlighting the backlash students faced for supporting Palestine.

Her speech concluded with a symbolic gesture, urging graduates to turn their class rings outward, stating:
“This is a world that we will be entering with an immeasurable responsibility… the same name that is directly complicit in the ongoing genocide of the Palestinian people.”

MIT’s Response & Public Reaction

MIT defended its decision, stating that Vemuri misled organizers and disrupted a formal event. University spokesperson Kimberly Allen explained:
“MIT supports free expression but stands by its decision, which was in response to the individual deliberately and repeatedly misleading Commencement organizers and leading a protest from the stage.”

Vemuri, however, called the ban a “massive overstep”, arguing she was punished without merit or due process. Her father confirmed that she would still receive her diploma.

The incident has sparked debate on free speech, with supporters praising her activism and critics calling it disruptive.

Conclusion

The MIT graduation controversy highlights the tensions surrounding free speech, activism, and institutional policies. While Vemuri’s speech resonated with many, MIT’s disciplinary action raises questions about the limits of campus expression.

Also read – Israel’s West Bank Settlement Expansion: A Historic Move with Global Consequences