Mukesh Chandrakar, a freelance journalist who extensively reported on corruption, was found dead in a septic tank in Chhattisgarh, India, leading to multiple arrests and calls for a thorough investigation.
Indian Journalist Mukesh Chandrakar Found Dead in Alleged Murder Linked to Corruption Reporting
Indian Journalist Mukesh Chandrakar Found Dead in Alleged Murder Linked to Corruption Reporting
The body of Mukesh Chandrakar, missing since January 1, was discovered in a septic tank amid allegations of foul play tied to his investigative work on public construction corruption.
The body of Mukesh Chandrakar, a 32-year-old Indian journalist known for his reports on corruption within public construction projects, was tragically found in a septic tank located in Chhattisgarh state. Chandrakar went missing on New Year's Day, prompting his family to file a police report. Following an investigation that involved tracking his mobile phone, authorities discovered his remains on January 3 in the compound of a road construction contractor in Bijapur.
Authorities have arrested three individuals in connection with his death, including two relatives, while a primary suspect—a compound owner named Suresh Chandrakar—remains at large. Initial police investigations did not yield any findings until further examination revealed Chandrakar's body concealed beneath newly laid concrete slabs. His physical injuries were consistent with blunt-force trauma, raising concerns of foul play.
Mukesh Chandrakar was a freelance journalist and operated a popular YouTube channel called Bastar Junction, where he often highlighted issues of corruption and local governance. In the wake of his death, the Press Council of India has urged government authorities to provide a detailed report regarding the circumstances. Responding to the public outcry, the state's chief minister called the incident "heartbreaking" and announced the formation of a special investigation team.
Local journalists have taken to the streets, demanding justice and strict action against the alleged killers, amidst widespread worries over the safety of journalists in India. The country has gained notoriety for being perilous for media practitioners, with an alarming average of three to four journalists falling victim to violent acts related to their work each year, particularly those covering corruption or environmental degradation. This case underscores the heightened risks faced by those committed to uncovering the truth in the world's largest democracy.
