Mon Jan 06 07:34:37 UTC 2025: ## Prime Accused Arrested in Chhattisgarh Journalist’s Murder

**Hyderabad, India –** The prime suspect in the murder of 33-year-old freelance journalist Mukesh Chandrakar has been arrested in Hyderabad, police announced Monday. Suresh Chandrakar, a contractor, was apprehended by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) late Sunday night. He had been absconding since Chandrakar’s body was discovered on January 3rd in a septic tank on his property in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh.

Chandrakar’s murder followed a news report aired on December 25th alleging corruption in a road construction project linked to Suresh Chandrakar. This is believed to be the motive for the killing.

Three other individuals – Ritesh Chandrakar (Suresh’s brother), Dinesh Chandrakar (another brother), and supervisor Mahendra Ramteke – have already been arrested in connection with the case. Police state that Ritesh and Mahendra assaulted Mukesh, while Dinesh attempted to cover up the crime.

The arrest comes amidst public outcry over the journalist’s death. On Sunday, members of the Mahar community held a candlelight march demanding capital punishment for all those involved and a safer environment for journalists. While Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma identified Suresh Chandrakar as a Congress leader, the opposition claims he recently joined the BJP. The investigation continues.

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