The body of 28-year-old journalist Mukesh Chandrakar, who had been missing for several days, was discovered in a septic tank on the property of a contractor in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur on Friday. Police have launched a murder investigation and detained several suspects for questioning.
According to Bijapur Police, Mukesh’s body was found in a septic tank that had been recently sealed with concrete. The discovery followed a missing person report filed by his brother, Yukesh Chandrakar, a television journalist, after Mukesh was last seen on the evening of January 1. Police tracked his phone and located the body on the property of contractor Suresh Chandrakar in Chattanpara Basti.
Mukesh had recently reported on alleged corruption in the construction of a road from Gangaloor to Nelasanar village, which led to an investigation into the project. Yukesh’s complaint indicated that Mukesh had received threats from three individuals, including contractor Suresh Chandrakar, prior to his disappearance.
The state’s Chief Minister, Vishnu Deo Sai, expressed condolences for Mukesh’s death, calling it a tragic loss for both journalism and society. He reassured the public that those responsible for the murder would be held accountable, promising swift action and severe punishment.
Mukesh Chandrakar was known for his brave journalism in Bastar, covering sensitive issues such as Maoist activities and local government corruption. He was instrumental in securing the release of a CRPF commando during a Maoist abduction in 2021, a feat that earned him recognition from the state police.
With over ten years of journalistic experience, Mukesh was a stringer for a major national news channel and operated a YouTube channel, Bastar Junction, with over 159,000 subscribers. His channel frequently covered the tribal community’s struggles and the ongoing conflict in Bastar. Mukesh’s work was vital in shedding light on the region’s challenges, and his efforts to help other journalists further demonstrate his commitment to the profession.
Anurag Dwary, the resident editor of the national news channel, expressed solidarity with Mukesh’s family, emphasizing the risks journalists face in the pursuit of truth. Mukesh’s tragic death is a stark reminder of the dangers journalists face, particularly in volatile regions like Bastar.
The murder has drawn condemnation from local journalists, who point to the growing threats faced by reporters in the area. Mukesh’s sacrifice highlights the harsh realities of journalism in conflict zones, where reporting the truth can come at the ultimate cost. Journalists across India are calling for a thorough and impartial investigation into his death, ensuring justice for a journalist who paid the highest price for his dedication to transparency and accountability.
