Police investigations led to the contractor's premises, where Mukesh's body was discovered in a freshly sealed septic tank. The body bore multiple injuries to the head and back, indicating foul play. Authorities have arrested three individuals in connection with the murder and are actively searching for the main suspect, contractor Suresh Chandrakar.
Mukesh was a freelance journalist who ran a YouTube channel called 'Bastar Junction,' which had over 159,000 subscribers. He was known for his reports on local issues, including corruption and Naxal-related cases. Notably, he played a key role in securing the release of a CRPF personnel abducted by Maoists in 2021.
Local journalists have suggested that Mukesh's recent reports on irregularities in road construction projects may have led to his murder. The police are investigating this angle, among others, to determine the motive behind the crime.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai expressed his condolences, stating, "The news of the murder of Bijapur's young and dedicated journalist Mukesh Chandrakar ji is very sad and heartbreaking. Mukesh ji's demise is an irreparable loss for journalism and society." He assured that the culprits would be arrested promptly and face the harshest punishment.
The incident has sparked outrage among the journalist community in Chhattisgarh. The Bastar Journalist Association condemned the murder, calling it a "dark chapter" and a significant safety concern for journalists working in the region. They have demanded swift action against those involved in the crime.
Press freedom organizations have also raised concerns about the safety of journalists in India, particularly those reporting on corruption and local governance issues. They emphasize the need for better protection mechanisms to ensure that journalists can work without fear of retribution.