Bastar journalist, who was investigating corruption case, found dead; CM says culprits won't be spared

CM Vishnu Deo Sai assures punishment

"This heinous incident is extremely sad and condemnable. I express my deepest condolences to the family of Mukesh Chandrakar and stand with them in this difficult time," he added.

Three arrested on Satuday

In this case, police have arrested three accused and are looking for the main accused Suresh Chandrakar. As per the officials, he will be in custody soon. Bastar IG P ​​Sundarraj has confirmed the arrest of all three accused. 33-year-old Mukesh Chandrakar was found dead in a septic tank on the property belonging to contractor Suresh Chandrakar at Chattanpara Basti in Bijapur town. Mukesh was an independent journalist and also a contributing reporter at NDTV. 

Who was Mukesh Chandrakar

Mukesh was a TV journalist who actively covered corruption and Naxal related cases. He used to post various updates and content on `Bastar Junction' channel on YouTube, which had over 159,000 subscribers. He played a key role in securing the release of CRPF personnel abducted by Maoists after an encounter in Bijapur in 2021.

Mukesh was missing since January 1

Mukesh was missing since January 1, he left his home wearing a T-shirt and shorts. His phone was switched off later. His brother Yukesh began searching for him at friends' place and across the city but failed to find him. Ultimately, he filed a missing person report with the police.

As per the missing complaint filed by Mukesh's brother, he had reported alleged irregularities in constructing a road from Gangaloor to Nelasanar village. The report prompted an investigation into the project. Yukesh mentioned this in the missing complaint and also told that his brother was receiving threat calls. 

Body found in septic tank 

The Bijapur police confirmed that Mukesh's body was discovered in a septic tank that had been freshly sealed with concrete. His swollen body, which had multiple injuries to the head and back, was identified by his clothes.

Chhattisgarh CM expressed condolences

Chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai expressed his condolences, saying, “The news of the murder of Bijapur's young and dedicated journalist Mukesh Chandrakar ji is very sad and heartbreaking. Mukesh ji's demise is an irreparable loss for journalism and society.” He added, “The culprit will not be spared under any circumstances. I have given instructions to arrest the criminals as soon as possible and ensure the harshest punishment for them.”