Indian media organizations call for probe into Journalist’s death

Three arrested after Mukesh Chandrakar’s body found in septic tank in Chhattisgarh’s on January 3

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India’s media watchdog and journalism organisations have called for a thorough investigation after the body of freelance journalist Mukesh Chandrakar was discovered stuffed in a septic tank in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district on January 3.

Chandrakar, 28, was known for his reporting on corruption and the Maoist insurgency in the mineral-rich state through his YouTube channel, Bastar Junction. Police have arrested at least three individuals, including two of his cousins, in connection with his murder.

The Press Council of India expressed “deep concern” over the killing, urging authorities to provide a detailed report on the case. Similarly, the Editors Guild of India said it was “deeply disturbed” and stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of journalists, particularly those working in smaller towns and rural areas.

“The Editors Guild calls on the government of Chhattisgarh to spare no efforts in investigating the case speedily and bringing the guilty to book,” the Guild said in a statement.

Chandrakar’s body was found after police tracked his mobile phone records following his family’s report that he was missing.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai described the journalist’s death as “heartbreaking” and vowed to deliver the “harshest punishment” to those responsible.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi also expressed shock, calling for swift justice. “Strict and immediate action should be taken, and proper compensation and employment opportunities should be considered for the victim’s family,” she said.

India ranked 159th out of 180 countries in the 2023 World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders, highlighting the growing risks journalists face in the country.