The Chhattisgarh police arrested contractor Suresh Chandrakar, the prime accused in the murder of Bijapur-based journalist Mukesh Chandrakaar, on Monday. The contractor, who had been on the run, was apprehended in Hyderabad and brought to Bijapur for questioning. Following his arrest, the state’s Public Works Department (PWD) suspended his licence and cancelled all his government tenders.

The PWD, in its order dated January 6, 2025, stated that all projects awarded to Suresh Chandrakaar have been annulled. This includes major works such as the construction of the Nelsonar-Gangalur road, the Jaemur-Tumnar road, and the Kutru-Farsegarh road. The department cited a lack of progress over the past eight to ten months as one of the reasons for the cancellation.

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Suresh Chandrakaar, an A-class contractor registered with the PWD, has been in the spotlight since journalist Mukesh Chandrakaar’s body was discovered on January 3 in a septic tank at Suresh’s farmhouse. Police investigations revealed that Mukesh was murdered on January 1. Reports suggest that a personal rivalry between the two relatives, worsened by Mukesh’s allegations of corruption in a road construction project undertaken by Suresh, led to the crime.

Mukesh Chandrakaar, a prominent young journalist in Bastar, ran a local YouTube news channel named Bastar Junction. He had previously exposed alleged corruption in one of Suresh’s road projects, which reportedly strained their relationship. Mukesh also played a critical role in 2021 during the Bijapur Takalguda Maoist attack by mediating the release of Cobra Commando Rakeshwar Singh Manhas from Maoist captivity.

Political allegations amid the case

The murder has taken a political turn, with BJP leaders claiming that Suresh Chandrakar was associated with the Congress. Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma alleged that Suresh was a Congress leader, while Congress countered by stating that he had recently joined the BJP.

Suresh Chandrakaar, known for his lavish lifestyle, first made headlines in 2021 when he held an extravagant wedding in Bijapur. Apart from government construction projects, he is also involved in mining operations in the Bastar region.

The murder of Mukesh Chandrakaar, a fearless journalist who relentlessly pursued stories of corruption and injustice, has sparked outrage across the state. Media organisations have demanded a swift and impartial investigation, while tributes continue to pour in for Mukesh, who was known for his dedication to truth and justice.

However, it remains to be seen how the Chhattisgarh government acts against similar allegations of corruption in other road construction and development projects executed by different contractors in the region. The case continues to unfold as investigators delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding the crime. Meanwhile, the state government has assured strict action against those involved, reaffirming its commitment to justice and press freedom.