The murder of journalist Mukesh Chandrakar in Bastar, Chhattisgarh, has not only exposed the grim realities faced by investigative reporters but has also become a chilling reminder of the dangers of uncovering corruption in regions dominated by powerful lobbies. Mukesh, a fearless journalist and founder of the popular YouTube channel Bastar Junction, had gained a reputation for his incisive and hard-hitting reports on local governance, corruption, and developmental issues. His latest investigation into irregularities in a Rs 120-crore road construction project from Gangalur to Hiroli proved to be a turning point that tragically cost him his life.
The investigation into Mukesh’s murder has uncovered disturbing details. It has been revealed that his own cousin, Ritesh Chandrakar, played a pivotal role in orchestrating the events leading up to his death. Ritesh reportedly facilitated a meeting between Mukesh and contractor Suresh Chandrakar on the night of January 1. This meeting marked the last known sighting of Mukesh before his disappearance. Two days later, his lifeless body was discovered in a septic tank on Suresh’s property in Chattanpara, bearing evidence of a violent and brutal assault. The post-mortem revealed multiple grievous injuries inflicted with a blunt object, including trauma to his head, back, chest, and stomach.
The corruption scandal at the heart of this tragedy revolves around a road construction project that saw its tender value mysteriously escalate from Rs 50 crore to Rs 120 crore without any alteration in the scope of work. Mukesh’s investigation into this irregularity not only prompted an inquiry by the state government but also stirred significant unrest within the contractor lobby in the Bastar region, known for wielding considerable influence and resorting to intimidation to silence dissent.
Police have so far arrested three individuals in connection with the murder, including Ritesh and another family member, Dinesh Chandrakar. However, the contractor at the center of the controversy, Suresh Chandrakar, remains absconding. In an effort to expedite justice, the police have formed four dedicated teams to track down Suresh and other potential accomplices. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has also been constituted to ensure a meticulous and unbiased probe. Meanwhile, forensic teams are analyzing evidence gathered from the crime scene and Mukesh’s last known location, and three bank accounts linked to Suresh have been frozen to aid the investigation.
Mukesh’s courageous reporting had reportedly strained his relationship with Ritesh, despite their familial bond and prior camaraderie. Tensions escalated after Mukesh’s exposé on the road project, though no explicit threats were reported to his family. This murder has spotlighted the precarious position of journalists in Bastar, where the nexus of corruption, political influence, and intimidation creates a hostile environment for those daring to expose the truth.
The case has triggered widespread outrage nationwide, with journalists and media organizations expressing solidarity and demanding swift justice. Under the banner of the Raipur Press Club, reporters staged protests in the state capital, calling for stricter measures to protect journalists and hold those responsible for Mukesh’s murder accountable. The incident has intensified calls for systemic reforms to ensure the safety and freedom of the press, particularly in regions where exposing corruption can be a life-threatening endeavor.
Prominent leaders, including Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, have condemned the murder and urged the BJP-led state government to act decisively. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), she described the incident as “shocking” and demanded strict punishment for the culprits. She also emphasized the need for adequate compensation and employment opportunities for Mukesh’s bereaved family.
Mukesh, who began his journalism career in 2012, had built a loyal following through his YouTube channel, Bastar Junction, which has amassed over 1.59 lakh subscribers. His work focused on grassroots issues, corruption, and the challenges faced by marginalized communities in the Bastar region. Known for his fearless and ethical reporting, Mukesh’s untimely death is a profound loss to the journalism fraternity and the community he sought to empower through his work.
As the investigation progresses, the focus remains on apprehending Suresh Chandrakar and unraveling the full extent of the conspiracy behind Mukesh’s murder. Beyond the immediate case, the tragedy has reignited discussions about the safety of journalists, the need for robust mechanisms to protect whistleblowers, and the systemic reforms required to dismantle entrenched power structures that enable such heinous acts. Mukesh’s legacy as a fearless crusader for truth will undoubtedly continue to inspire journalists and activists, even as the fight for justice in his name presses on.
