India, July 19 -- A group of UN experts has expressed concern over the detention of five indigenous human rights activists in Assam, saying the charges against them could undermine the legitimate work of those defending indigenous peoples' rights.

In a statement issued, a UN Working Group on business and human rights and four UN Special Rapporteurs said they were "deeply concerned" by reports that the activists had been deprived of their liberty in connection with their peaceful advocacy on behalf of indigenous communities' lands and rights. According to the statement, Assam Police arrested Pranab Doley, Rajib Pegu, Brijit Kutum, Amit Nag and Bhaskar Saikia in connection with protests on June 29 over the proposed construction of a luxury...