A journalist investigating corruption in Chhattisgarh's construction sector was discovered dead on Wednesday, sparking outrage and calls for a thorough investigation into the murky world of public project contracts.
The deceased, Mukesh Chandrakar, who worked with a local news channel, had been missing since 1 January after his exposé on irregularities in a ₹120 crore road construction project in Bastar. His investigation had reportedly prompted authorities to initiate an inquiry into the contractor involved, Suresh Chandrakar.
Mukesh's elder brother, Yukesh Chandrakar, reported him missing after his phone remained switched off following a meeting arranged by Suresh’s brother, Ritesh, at one of the contractor's properties.
After combing through CCTV footage and tracing Mukesh’s last known location, police recovered his body on 3 January from a water tank at the premises of Suresh Chandrakar in the Chattanpara locality, where he was last seen.
“A missing person report was filed by the victim's brother on 2 January. We initiated action, traced his last location, and found his body inside a tank yesterday evening,” a senior police official stated. Forensic teams were deployed to the scene, and investigations are underway.
Sources indicate that Chhattisgarh’s contractor lobby has a reputation for wielding influence and silencing critics through intimidation or violence. Local journalists often bear the brunt of such hostility, especially when covering corruption.
Police have taken Ritesh Chandrakar into custody, while other members of the family are reportedly absconding. “The investigation is being pursued thoroughly,” a senior officer assured.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety of journalists in the region and the pervasive corruption in government contracting.
Advocacy groups have urged authorities to ensure justice for Mukesh and increased protection for reporters exposing corruption.
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