MIT Bans Megha Vemuri from Commencement After Pro-Palestine Speech

MIT Bans Megha Vemuri After Palestine Speech

MIT has barred Megha Vemuri, the class president of 2025, from further commencement activities following her pro-Palestine speech.

Vemuri's Response

Vemuri responded to Chancellor Melissa Nobles, arguing that her speech wasn't a protest from the stage, despite Nobles citing violations of MIT's campus expression rules.

Controversial Speech

Vemuri's address criticized MIT's ties to Israel, expressing solidarity with Palestine, and calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. In her speech, Vemuri stated, “You showed the world that MIT wants a free Palestine”. She also added, “We are watching Israel try to wipe Palestine off the face of the earth, and it is a shame that MIT is a part of it.”

Backlash and Reaction

The decision sparked controversy, with figures like Megyn Kelly criticizing Vemuri's actions as selfish and disrespectful. Indian commentators questioned her wearing a keffiyeh and not addressing issues faced by Hindus in Bangladesh.

MIT's Stance

MIT maintains Vemuri's actual speech differed from what was submitted, catching them off guard.