Tragic Discovery: Body of Investigative Journalist Mukesh Chandrakar Found in Septic Tank Amidst Corruption Allegations in Bastar

In 2021, Mukesh Chandrakar significantly contributed to the safe release of CRPF members taken hostage by Maoists during a clash in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, demonstrating his commitment to resolving such critical situations.

The lifeless body of 28-year-old journalist Mukesh Chandrakar, who had been missing, was discovered in a septic tank located on the premises of a contractor in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, on Friday, according to police reports. Following this grim finding, a murder investigation has been initiated, and several individuals are currently being questioned as potential suspects.

According to information released by the Bijapur Police, Mukesh's remains were located in a septic tank that had recently been sealed with concrete. This shocking revelation has raised concerns and led to a deeper investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident, stating, "The news of the murder of Bijapur's young and dedicated journalist Mukesh Chandrakar ji is profoundly sad and heartbreaking. The loss of Mukesh ji represents an irreplaceable void in both journalism and society." He assured the public that the perpetrators would face justice, emphasizing, “Under no circumstances will the culprit be spared. I have instructed law enforcement to apprehend those responsible without delay and ensure they receive the most severe punishment.”

Mukesh was last seen on January 1, and his elder brother, Yukesh Chandrakar, a fellow journalist in television, reported him missing the following day. Utilizing mobile tracking, law enforcement was able to trace Mukesh's body to the property of contractor Suresh Chandrakar in Chattanpara Basti.

Who exactly was Mukesh Chandrakar? He had an impressive record, notably playing a pivotal role in the release of CRPF personnel who had been captured by Maoists following an encounter in Bijapur in 2021. The state police acknowledged his critical involvement in securing the release of CRPF commando Rakeshwar Singh Manhas. Mukesh was well-known for his thorough reporting on Naxal activities, confrontations, and various challenges impacting the Bastar region.

With a decade's worth of experience in journalism, Mukesh worked as a stringer for a prominent national news outlet and was the creator of a well-followed YouTube channel named Bastar Junction, which boasted over 159,000 subscribers. Anurag Dwary, the resident editor for the national news channel where Mukesh contributed, remarked, “As a journalist, my colleague paid the ultimate price for revealing the truth. This stark reality reinforces the dangers that journalists encounter daily in their pursuit of accountability. We affirm our support for his family and demand a quick and unbiased investigation to ensure justice prevails. His sacrifice will not go unnoticed, and we will persist in his quest for transparency and justice.”

Mukesh’s YouTube channel showcased videos addressing various facets of the ongoing conflict between the State and the Maoists, while also bringing to light issues that pertain to the tribal communities. His extensive network proved beneficial as he assisted fellow journalists from Raipur and across the nation in their reporting endeavors.

The brutal murder of Mukesh has drawn condemnation from fellow journalists in Bastar, who have pointed out that this tragedy emphasizes the daily hurdles faced by those in the journalism field within the region. The outpouring of grief and anger underscores the need for heightened safety measures and protections for journalists working in areas of conflict.