The Price of Truth: Journalist Mukesh Chandrakar Brutally Murdered in Bijapur.
||Black & White Digital News||
||Parvinder Singh January 07, 2024||
As the nation welcomed the new year with celebr tations and hope, a horrifying incident in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district cast a dark shadow over the ideals of democracy and freedom of the press. Mukesh Chandrakar, a 33-year-old journalist and the owner of the YouTube channel Bastar Junction, was abducted and brutally murdered for his unwavering dedication to exposing corruption and holding power to account.
Mukesh had earned a reputation as a fearless whistleblower. Through his investigative reporting, he uncovered corrupt practices involving local administrative officials and their favored contractors, bringing transparency to a region riddled with systemic issues. His efforts made him a beacon of hope for many, but also a target for those seeking to silence the truth.
This was not the first time Mukesh’s bravery had come to the fore. He had previously played a pivotal role in securing the release of a COBRA commando abducted during the 2021 Tekulguda massacre, where 29 security personnel were killed in one of the deadliest Maoist attacks in recent years. This act of courage highlighted his deep commitment to justice and his community.
Tragically, his dedication came at an unimaginable cost. On New Year’s Eve, Mukesh was abducted, and the brutality of his murder sent shockwaves across the nation. His heart was ripped out, his liver split into four pieces, his neck broken, and his body bore 15 fractured ribs. This gruesome act underscores the dangers faced by journalists working in conflict zones, especially those who challenge entrenched corruption and power structures.
Mukesh’s murder has sparked outrage and mourning across the country. It is a stark reminder of the perils faced by journalists who uphold the fourth pillar of democracy, often at great personal risk. His sacrifice also raises urgent questions about the safety of media professionals and the measures needed to protect those who work tirelessly to bring the truth to light.
