The Press Club of India has expressed its shock and condemnation following the murder of Mukesh Chandrakar, a 31-year-old freelance journalist from Bijapur, Chhattisgarh. Chandrakar, known for his YouTube channel Bastar Junction, had been missing since January 1, and his body was found in a septic tank on a contractor’s property in Bijapur on Friday.
Chandrakar was a prominent journalist who reported on issues such as corruption, tribal rights, and insurgent violence in the conflict-ridden Bastar region. His untimely death has raised concerns about the safety of journalists working in such high-risk areas. The Press Club of India has demanded time-bound action against the perpetrators and has called on the Press Council of India to address the issue, urging the state government to take appropriate action.
In a statement, the Press Club extended its heartfelt condolences to Chandrakar’s family and friends, saying, “In this hour of grief and loss, the Press Club of India extends its sincere condolence to the family members as well as friends.”
The club has also condemned the increasing frequency of attacks on journalists in the Bastar division, noting that while such incidents are not new, the impunity with which they are carried out is unacceptable. The Press Club called for the state government to look into the long-standing demand from local journalists for a law to protect them.
The Cogito Media Foundation also weighed in on the incident, stating, “Journalist Mukesh Chandrakar was murdered in Chhattisgarh after reporting on corruption cases. This incident is a sign of an attack on journalism and a serious threat to freedom of expression. The government is demanded to conduct a fair investigation of the case and give strict punishment to the culprits.”
To honour Chandrakar and protest against the increasing attacks on journalists, the Press Club of India plans to hold a condolence and protest meeting at its premises early next week. Journalists, especially those covering the region, have been urged to attend and show solidarity.
