Thai authorities should immediately release and drop the groundless charges against Paul Chambers, a leading Thai studies scholar.

BANGKOK -- A U.S scholar teaching in Thailand who was jailed on charges of insulting the country’s monarchy — an offense punishable by up to 15 years in prison — was released on bail on Wednesday, but also had his visa revoked, an indication he could be deported soon.

An appeals court in Thailand granted bail to a US academic accused of insulting the country’s monarchy, a day after his arrest drew condemnation from Washington and civil rights groups.