MIT Bars Indian-American Student from Graduation After Pro-Palestine Speech

Megha Vemuri (image source: LinkedIn)

MIT Bars Indian-American Student from Graduation After Pro-Palestine Speech

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has barred Megha Vemuri, an Indian-American student and president of the Class of 2025, from attending her graduation ceremony following a pro-Palestine speech delivered at a university event on May 29, 2025.

Vemuri, who was scheduled to serve as the student marshal, was informed by MIT Chancellor Melissa Nobles via email that she and her family were prohibited from attending the graduation and banned from campus for most of the day. The university cited a violation of its code of conduct, though specific details of the incident have not been publicly disclosed. The Times of India+6The Times of India+6The Times of India+6The Times of India

In her speech, Vemuri accused MIT of supporting the "genocide" of Palestinians and collaborating with the Israeli military. Her remarks, which praised student protests against Israel following Hamas’ October 2023 attack, received a mixed reaction of boos and cheers. Some Jewish students walked out during the address, expressing dismay over the disruption of the ceremony. New York Post

Following the incident, Vemuri deleted her LinkedIn profile and publicly criticized MIT's decision, labeling it an overreach. She disputed the characterization of her speech as a protest and emphasized the importance of free expression in academic settings. The Times of India+6The Times of India+6The Times of India+6

The incident has sparked discussions about freedom of speech and political expression on college campuses, particularly concerning sensitive geopolitical issues. MIT's administration has stood by its decision, citing adherence to established procedures and the importance of maintaining ethical standards. The Federal+3The Times of India+3The Times of India+3The Times of India