Sat Jan 04 15:48:01 UTC 2025: ## Journalist Murdered, Three Arrested in Chhattisgarh

**Bijapur, Chhattisgarh:** Three individuals, including two relatives of the victim, have been arrested in connection with the murder of journalist Mukesh Chandrakar, whose body was discovered in a septic tank in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh on Friday. Chandrakar, 32, a freelance journalist who also contributed to NDTV, was last seen on New Year’s Day. His brother reported him missing the following day.

Police located Chandrakar’s body in a shed owned by a contractor, Suresh Chandrakar, who is currently at large and considered the alleged mastermind. Arrested are Mukesh’s cousin, Ritesh Chandrakar, apprehended at Raipur airport; Mahendra Ramteke, a supervisor; and another relative, Dinesh Chandrakar, all taken into custody in Bijapur.

According to police, an argument erupted during a dinner at Suresh’s shed between Mukesh, Ritesh, and Mahendra, escalating into a fatal attack with an iron rod. The body was subsequently hidden in the septic tank and sealed with cement. Dinesh allegedly oversaw this process. Mukesh’s phone and the murder weapon have been disposed of. A post-mortem confirmed severe head, chest, back, and stomach injuries consistent with a brutal attack.

The crime is believed to be premeditated, given the nature of the injuries and the efforts to conceal the body. An 11-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to investigate, with four police teams searching for Suresh Chandrakar. Four of his bank accounts have been frozen, and an illegally constructed yard he owned has been demolished. Authorities say they will pursue a swift and thorough prosecution.

Chhattisgarh’s Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma called the murder “terrible, painful, and utterly wrong,” assuring swift action for justice. The Editors Guild of India expressed deep concern, noting Chandrakar had recently reported on an alleged road construction scam involving contractors. The Guild urged a speedy investigation and highlighted the need for enhanced safety measures for journalists, particularly those working in smaller towns and rural areas.

Read More