Suresh Chandrakar Arrested in Hyderabad Over Mukesh’s Murder

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has arrested Suresh Chandrakar, the prime suspect in the murder of Mukesh Chandrakar, a prominent journalist and YouTuber from Bastar. The arrest occurred on Monday in Hyderabad, following a multi-day manhunt. Mukesh, 33, had been missing since January 1, with his body found on January 5 in a septic tank at a road contractor's property in Bijapur district. Authorities confirmed the septic tank had been sealed with a freshly poured concrete slab.

According to Mayank Gurjar, the SIT head in Bijapur, three additional individuals — Ritesh Chandrakar, Dinesh Chandrakar, and Mahendra — have also been taken into custody in connection with the crime. Investigations are ongoing as authorities work to uncover further details surrounding the case.

Mukesh Chandrakar was known for his investigative journalism, particularly covering issues in the conflict-ridden region of Bastar. His recent reporting exposed a suspected road construction scam in Bijapur, which led to a formal probe into local contractors. Police believe his murder may be directly related to his exposé.

On January 1, Mukesh had communicated with a local contractor, arranging a meeting that he informed a journalist in Raipur about. Afterward, he disappeared, sparking concern. His brother, Yugesh, filed a missing person report, which ultimately led to the grim discovery of Mukesh’s body. The body was found at the residence of Suresh Chandrakar in Chattanpara Basti, where police soon identified him as the prime suspect.

Bastar police confirmed that Suresh Chandrakar had been evading capture until his arrest in Hyderabad. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai expressed his sorrow over the incident, tweeting, "The murder of young and dedicated journalist Mukesh Chandrakar is deeply heartbreaking. The culprits will face justice."

In response to the murder, the Bastar Journalist Association, led by Manish Gupta, condemned the act as a "dark chapter" in the history of journalism. Gupta emphasized the increasing risks faced by journalists in the region, calling it a challenge to report in Bastar. "Journalists' safety must be a priority for the police, government, and society. Today, the very foundation of journalism ethics has been shaken," Gupta said.

In solidarity with Mukesh’s family and colleagues, members of the Raipur Press Club gathered at Jai Stambh Chowk on Friday evening, demanding swift justice for the slain journalist. Meanwhile, journalists in Bijapur organized a complete shutdown, protesting the murder.

Mukesh Chandrakar’s contributions to journalism were significant. He had previously played a pivotal role in securing the release of a CoBRA commando held captive by Maoists following the 2021 Tekulguda massacre, which resulted in the deaths of 29 security personnel.