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Ravi was known for death penalty advocacy
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M Ravi leaves behind a complex legacy—one defined by courage, controversy and an enduring commitment to human rights
Singapore’s legal and human rights community is mourning the death of Indian-origin lawyer M Ravi, a prominent and often controversial figure best known for his work defending death row inmates and advocating for civil liberties. Ravi, 56, was found dead in the early hours of December 24, according to local media reports. Police have stated that investigations are under way into a case of unnatural death.
Born in 1969 as Ravi Madasamy, he practised law for more than 25 years and built a reputation as a fearless advocate for causes that placed him at odds with mainstream opinion. He was particularly recognised for representing prisoners facing capital punishment, including several foreign nationals, and for consistently calling for the abolition of the death penalty in Singapore. Under Singaporean law, 33 serious offences, such as murder, drug trafficking and terrorism, can carry the death sentence.
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Ravi was also a vocal for LGBTQ rights, campaigning for the decriminalisation of homosexuality and broader legal reforms
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His commitment to these causes earned him both respect and criticism, making him one of the most talked-about lawyers in the country
Educated at the National University of Singapore and Cardiff University, Ravi was admitted to the Bar in 1996. In 2019, he established his own practice, M Ravi Law. His work in the field of human rights received international recognition in 2023, when the International Bar Association presented him with its Award for Outstanding Contribution by a Legal Practitioner to Human Rights. The organisation praised his unwavering dedication to civil liberties and legal reform in Singapore.
Despite his achievements, Ravi’s career was marked by legal and professional challenges. He had been disciplined multiple times, including a five-year suspension from legal practice in 2023 over allegations deemed baseless against senior legal officials. In 2024, he was sentenced to a short jail term for a series of offences. Ravi had previously spoken openly about being diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2006, a condition that intersected with several episodes in his personal and professional life.
Colleagues have remembered him as a passionate defender of his clients. Lawyer Eugene Thuraisingam described Ravi as someone who fought relentlessly for his beliefs and cared deeply about pro bono work.
Beyond the courtroom, Ravi was also an author and political aspirant. His autobiography, Kampong Boy, published in 2013, was shortlisted for the Singapore Literature Prize. He also contested the 2015 General Election as a candidate from the Reform Party.
