Chhattisgarh News: In a significant development, the Bastar police apprehended three suspects linked to the murder of Bijapur journalist Mukesh Chandrakar. The arrests were made public during a media briefing on Saturday, revealing that one of the accused is a distant relative of the victim.Journalists and Citizens Unite in MourningThe brutal murder of Mukesh Chandrakar has left journalists in Bastar in deep mourning and shock. In response to this tragedy, citizens of Bijapur have organized a city-wide shutdown and road blockade as a form of protest. Journalists are demanding swift action and the immediate arrest of all individuals involved in this heinous crime.Details of the ArrestsDuring a press conference in Bijapur, P. Sundarraj, Inspector General of Police for the Bastar range, disclosed that suspect Ritesh Chandrakar was arrested at Raipur airport, while two others were taken into custody in Bijapur. The police investigation revealed that Mukesh and Ritesh were distant relatives who often interacted over family matters. On the night of the murder, January 1, Mukesh received a call from Ritesh around 8 PM, leading them to Suresh Chandrakar&#39s property for dinner.A Fatal ArgumentAccording to IG Sundarraj, an argument erupted between Mukesh and Ritesh concerning allegations of road corruption. Ritesh accused Mukesh of obstructing his construction work despite their familial ties. The confrontation escalated, resulting in Ritesh and his associate Mahendra Ramteke attacking Mukesh with an iron rod, causing his immediate death. They subsequently disposed of his body in a septic tank and attempted to cover up their crime.Conspiracy to Destroy EvidenceAfter the attack, Ritesh contacted his elder brother Dinesh, who traveled from Jagdalpur with other relatives to Bodli, where they conspired to eliminate evidence. They scattered the murder weapon and Mukesh&#39s mobile phone at various locations. Ritesh then fled to Raipur using his brother Suresh&#39s vehicle before boarding a flight to New Delhi on January 2.Discovery of the BodyMukesh was reported missing around 8:30 PM on January 1, prompting his brother Yukesh to file a police complaint the following evening. Initial inquiries included questioning relatives and colleagues about Mukeshs disappearance. On January 3, investigators examined the freshly cemented septic tank at Suresh&#39s property near a badminton court. Upon dismantling it, they discovered Mukesh&#39s body, which bore multiple injuries consistent with blunt force trauma.Ongoing InvestigationA case has been filed against Ritesh, Ramteke, and Dinesh under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Four teams have been formed to locate Suresh Chandrakar, who remains at large. IG Sundarraj assured that no one involved in Mukesh&#39s murder would escape justice. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been established to gather scientific evidence and expedite prosecution.Political RepercussionsIn a related political context, Sushil Anand Shukla from Congress challenged Deputy CM Sharmas claims about Suresh Chandrakars affiliations with BJP, stating that he had been seen with senior party leaders. Shukla emphasized that justice should be blind to political affiliations and called for accountability regarding corruption allegations raised by Mukesh against contractor Suresh Chandrakar.
