Thread by @AIIndia

1: The release of Bhim Army leader, Chandrashekhar Azad ‘Ravan’ is a first step by the Uttar Pradesh government towards ensuring equal rights for Dalit women and men who are challenging caste-based violence and discrimination. #FreeRavan #BhimArmy

READ: bit.ly/RavanIsFree

2: We are delighted that Chandrashekhar Azad ‘Ravan’ has been released and is finally reunited with his loved ones. The Uttar Pradesh govt must now ensure that he is not targeted for his work to empower Dalit communities and, is not detained again without a fair trial

#FreeRavan

3: Speaking to the media, Chandrashekhar Azad ‘Ravan’ said “The government was scared that they would be rebuked by the Supreme Court for arresting me so they have decided to release me early. I’m very sure that they will re-arrest me again within 10 days”

#FreeRavan #BhimArmy

4: Amnesty International India believes that Chandrashekhar Azad's fears of being re-arrested again are legitimate. In November 2017, when he was released on bail, he was immediately re-arrested under the draconian National Security Act.

#FreeRavan #BhimArmy

5: If Chandrashekhar Azad 'Ravan' is re-arrested then it will indeed, raise disturbing questions about whether he is being targeted for his activism. It is essential for courts to protect fair trial guarantees and ensure that the criminal justice system is not undermined.”

6: The impact of Chandrashekhar Azad ‘Ravan’ is his ability to mobilise supporters to stand up against caste-based oppression. For him to fear that he will be detained further without charge, sends a message that the govt doesn’t appreciate their assertion of their rights.

7: Over 160,000 people across India had supported our campaign calling on Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to release Chandrashekhar Azad ‘Ravan’.

#FreeRavan

8: While this development is wonderful news, similar steps need to be taken for human rights defenders across the country who are being targeted under repressive security laws.

#FreeRavan