APRRN deeply saddened by the loss of Ravi Hemadri
Ravi Hemadri, founding member and Secretary of the Development and Justice Initiative (DAJI) in India, passed away on 15 July 2025.
Ravi was also one of the founding members of the Asia Pacific Refugee Rights Network (APRRN). A staunch advocate and champion for the rights of refugees, migrants, Indigenous Peoples, and other minorities in India, he was courageous and would always speak out on the situation of marginalised communities, and he never tired of working towards a more just future.
For over 25 years, Ravi dedicated his life to community mobilisation, training, advocacy, and research. Our community of practitioners and advocates working on the rights of refugees and other vulnerable people on the move in Asia Pacific has lost a friend and colleague. But his legacy will continue to inspire those who worked with him. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones.
On behalf of APRRN, Hafsar Tameesuddin and Klaus Dik Nielsen, Co-Secretaries General
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Ravi Hemadri is no more. There are no words to express the sorrow and grief in our hearts. Ravi Hemadri was a true protector and defender of the Rohingya refugees across India. His guidance, compassion, and relentless dedication to the cause of human rights left an indelible mark on our lives and our Rohingya community. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his extraordinary life. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Sabber Kyaw Min, founder & Director of Rohingya Human Rights Initiative (ROHRIngya) and APRRN member
Ravi has been a key supporter for us, alongside Tapan Kumar Bose. I am still trying to accept this. We lost another pillar this year before we could fully recover emotionally from Tapan’s passing. Ravi’s demise truly broke me. Condolences to his family and loved ones.
Ali Johar, Co-lead, Global Movement Against Statelessness and APRRN member
I have known Ravi for the last two decades as a tireless refugee rights activist. He always stood firm for the refugees and marginalized, giving voice to those silenced by borders and conflicts. Ravi’s compassion, intellect, and unwavering dedication shaped lives and policies alike. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those he empowered and protected. Gone too soon, but his fight for justice echoes still.
Gopal Krishna Siwakoti, President: INHURED International and Chair & Steering Committee Member: South Asia Working Group-APRRN
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