Human rights groups and Western officials welcomed Ai’s unexpected release on bail, but voiced dismay over the conditions and urged Beijing to free other activists still in police custody.
Ai was freed late Wednesday because of his “good attitude” in confessing to tax evasion.
His detention — which came during a major government crackdown on activists launched in February — sparked furious criticism led by Western governments.
Published 23 June 2011, 17:10 IST