Farmers’ protest in India: Thunberg lends support for jailed activist Ravi

Greta Thunberg has tweeted her support for an Indian activist jailed over a guide for anti-government farmers protests, which the Swedish climate campaigner had earlier shared to social media. 

In a post on Twitter, Thunberg wrote "freedom of speech and the right to peaceful protest and assembly are non-negotiable human rights."

"These must be a fundamental part of any democracy. #StandWithDishaRavi," the 18-year-old activist tweeted, referring to Indian climate campaigner Disha Ravi.

Ravi, 22, was arrested on last Saturday. Police alleged she helped edit a so-called toolkit, which offers basic advice including joining on-the-ground protests and showing support on social media.

Police said the main aim of the toolkit was to create misinformation. Ravi's arrest has been criticised by opposition politicians and activists within India.

Farmers have been camping on the outskirts of the capital since late November, and calling for the repeal of new agriculture laws.

The tussle between the government and the farmers took an international turn in early February when Rihanna and Thunberg tweeted about the rallies to their millions of social media followers.