Candle March in Chhattisgarh Calls for Justice Following Murder of Journalist Mukesh Chandrakar

A candle march was organised by the Mahar community on Sunday in Bijapur town, Chhattisgarh, to protest the murder of journalist Mukesh Chandrakar. Participants demanded the death penalty for those responsible. The march began at Ambedkar Bhawan and ended at Jaistambh Chowk. RD Jhadi, a Mahar Samaj patron, insisted on severe punishment for all involved in the crime.

The body of Mukesh Chandrakar, a 33-year-old freelance journalist, was discovered on January 3 in a septic tank at a property owned by contractor Suresh Chandrakar in Chattanpara Basti. He had been missing for two days before being found. Police have arrested Ritesh Chandrakar, Dinesh Chandrakar, and supervisor Mahendra Ramteke, while Suresh Chandrakar remains at large.

Investigation and Legal Actions

The Chhattisgarh government has formed a Special Investigation Team to delve into the case. Mukesh Chandrakar was associated with NDTV as a freelance journalist and operated a YouTube channel called Bastar Junction with 1.59 lakh subscribers. A report aired on December 25 about alleged corruption in road construction in Bijapur is suspected to be linked to his murder.

The road construction project was tied to contractor Suresh Chandrakar. In response to the incident, authorities have begun taking action against illegal properties and encroachments linked to the accused. A construction yard built by Suresh Chandrakar on forest land along Bijapur-Gangaloor Road has been demolished.

Financial Measures and Past Contributions

Police have initiated steps to freeze bank accounts associated with Suresh Chandrakar and other suspects. Three of Suresh's accounts have already been frozen. Mukesh Chandrakar had previously played a significant role in securing the release of CoBRA commando Rakeshwar Singh Manhas from Maoist captivity in April 2021 after the Takalguda Naxal attack that resulted in the deaths of 22 security personnel.

RD Jhadi emphasised the need for a safe environment for journalists to report independently. "We demand creating a conducive environment for journalists wherein they can independently report news," he stated. The community's call for justice reflects their concern over press freedom and safety.