Bastar Journalist Murder: SIT Formed To Probe Case, Main Accused Identified

The murder of journalist Mukesh Chandrakar has sparked outrage as Chhattisgarh's Home Minister Vijay Sharma announced

Bijapur: The murder of journalist Mukesh Chanmdrakar has sparked widespread condemnation, with Chhattisgarh's Home Minister Vijay Sharma promising swift justice. Speaking to the media, Sharma said that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by Additional Superintendent of Police Mayank Gurjar will investigate the case. "The culprits will face a speedy trial, and justice will be ensured," Sharma asserted.

Sharma confirmed that Congress leader Suresh Chandrakar is the prime accused. "Suresh Chandrakar has built yards illegally, which will be investigated. Four of his bank accounts have been frozen, and his illegal properties along the Bijapur-Gangaloor road have been razed," Sharma said. Police have detained three suspects and are working to apprehend others linked to the case.

The body of Mukesh Chandrakar was discovered in a contractor's septic tank on January 3, two days after he went missing. The police, acting on a complaint by Mukesh's brother Yukesh Chandrakar, traced his mobile phone to the contractor's house. "The septic tank had been freshly covered with concrete slabs," police revealed.

An 11-member SIT has been tasked with completing the investigation. "The SIT will interrogate all suspects, and a chargesheet will be submitted in three to four weeks. We will request the court for a speedy trial," Sharma added.

Mukesh Chandrakar gained recognition for his role in negotiating the release of CoBRA commando Rakeshwar Singh Manhar from Maoist captivity in 2021.

The Press Association and the Editors Guild of India expressed grief and condemned the killing. "This tragic incident highlights the urgent need for strong security measures for journalists, particularly those in investigative roles," they said in a joint statement.

The Editors Guild demanded a thorough investigation, adding, "The death of this young journalist raises suspicion of foul play. The state government must ensure the culprits are brought to justice." The Press Club of India and Indian Women's Press Corps also called for strict action.

Vijay Sharma emphasised the government's commitment to justice. "The murder is a significant setback to our efforts to establish peace in Bastar. Mukesh was a brave journalist who deeply understood local issues. His loss is irreparable," he said.

Details of the Incident

Mukesh Chandrakar had been reporting on alleged irregularities in road construction projects in Bastar. On January 1, he left home and went missing. His elder brother filed a missing persons report the next day. "We located his phone near Suresh Chandrakar's property, leading to the discovery of his body," officials stated.

With the SIT investigation underway, Sharma reiterated, "The government will leave no stone unturned to ensure that the guilty are punished through a swift judicial process."