Heart Ripped Out: The Shocking Murder of Journalist Mukesh Chandrakar

Hyderabad - The body of Mukesh Chandrakar, a journalist from Chhattisgarh, was discovered on January 3, 2025, in a septic tank at a construction site owned by his cousin, Suresh Chandrakar. Missing since January 1, Mukesh's body revealed signs of brutal torture. His heart had been ripped out, and his liver was split into pieces, a chilling testament to the price he paid for exposing corruption.  

The Motive Behind the Murder

Mukesh’s investigative work had uncovered a ₹120-crore scam in a road construction project, allegedly linked to his cousin. The exposé aired on December 25, 2024, led to an official inquiry. This revelation reportedly enraged Suresh, who, along with accomplices, plotted the journalist's murder to silence him permanently.  

The Arrest of the Main Accused

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) tracked the prime suspect, Suresh Chandrakar, to Hyderabad, where he was hiding. Using CCTV footage and mobile data, the police apprehended him at his driver’s residence. Suresh’s wife and two other accomplices were also detained, shedding light on the planned brutality of the crime.  

The Call for Justice

Mukesh’s murder has sparked outrage across the nation. Press organizations, including the Editors Guild of India, have condemned the act, urging the government to strengthen protections for journalists. India’s alarming track record of journalist deaths highlights a systemic failure to ensure their safety. As the case unfolds, it raises critical questions about the safety of those who defend democracy through fearless reporting. Will justice prevail, or will this become another forgotten tragedy?