Chhattisgarh: Three Suspects Detained in Connection with Bijapur Journalist Mukesh Chandrakar's Murder

Three Detained in Connection with Journalist Mukesh Chandrakar’s Murder in Chhattisgarh

Bijapur, Chhattisgarh: In a tragic case that has shaken the media and local community, police have detained three suspects in connection with the murder of journalist Mukesh Chandrakar, whose body was discovered in a septic tank earlier this month. The detained individuals include two of Chandrakar’s relatives, Ritesh and Dinesh Chandrakar, along with a local supervisor, Mahendra Ramteke.

Mukesh Chandrakar, a 33-year-old journalist known for his investigative reporting in the Bastar region, had recently exposed irregularities in a road construction project allegedly involving influential contractors. His death is suspected to be linked to his courageous efforts to expose corruption.

The breakthrough in the case came with the arrest of the main suspect, contractor Suresh Chandrakar, who had been evading capture. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) tracked him down in Hyderabad after an extensive investigation that involved analyzing CCTV footage from over 200 locations and tracing hundreds of mobile phone records. Suresh Chandrakar was taken into custody earlier this week and is being interrogated regarding his role in the crime.

The Press Council of India, journalist unions, and civil rights activists have condemned the murder, describing it as a stark reminder of the risks faced by reporters working in conflict-prone regions. Chandrakar’s colleagues remembered him as a fearless journalist dedicated to exposing the truth, no matter the consequences.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel expressed his condolences to the family and assured the public of a thorough and impartial investigation. “Those responsible for this heinous act will face the strictest punishment under the law,” he said.

The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to establish the exact motive and role of each suspect. For now, the arrests bring a glimmer of hope for justice in a case that underscores the vulnerabilities of journalists fighting for accountability in dangerous territories.