Mukesh Chandrakar Biography: Fearless Journalist from Bastar

Mukesh Chandrakar, born in 1996 in Basaguda, Bijapur district, Chhattisgarh, was a brave journalist renowned for his investigative reporting and dedication to highlighting the struggles of tribal communities in the conflict-ridden Bastar region. As a journalist, he worked tirelessly to expose corruption, government inefficiencies, and the socio-political issues affecting his homeland. Tragically, his promising life was cut short on January 1, 2025, when he was allegedly murdered at the age of 28.

In this article, we delve into Mukesh Chandrakar’s life, including his age, family, career, education, work achievements, and untimely death. We will also cover lesser-known facts about his impactful journalism career and the events surrounding his tragic demise.

Mukesh Chandrakar Short Details

Early Life and Education

Mukesh Chandrakar was born into a modest family in the violence-affected Basaguda village of Bijapur. His father passed away early in his life, and his mother, an anganwadi worker, succumbed to cancer in 2013. Mukesh and his elder brother, Yukesh Chandrakar, grew up in a government shelter due to displacement caused by Naxal violence.

Mukesh’s schooling was completed in Dantewada, and his experiences in Bastar’s conflict zone fueled his desire to become a journalist. He pursued a degree in journalism, inspired by his brother Yukesh, who was also a journalist.

Career Journey

Mukesh Chandrakar began his journalism career as a stringer for prominent national news channels, including NDTV and Network18 Group. He also managed a successful YouTube channel, “Bastar Junction,” which had over 159,000 subscribers and covered topics like the Naxal insurgency and tribal issues.

Major Contributions:

1. Investigative Reporting: Mukesh’s work included exposing a ₹120-crore corruption scandal in a road construction project in Bastar. His investigative reports brought attention to systemic issues but also made him a target for threats.
2. Humanitarian Efforts: In 2021, Mukesh played a pivotal role in negotiating the release of CRPF commando Rakeshwar Singh Manhas, who had been kidnapped by Maoists during a clash in Bijapur.
3. Advocacy for Tribals: His reporting focused on the socio-economic struggles of tribal communities, Naxal violence, and government negligence in Bastar.

Mukesh’s fearless journalism earned him respect among colleagues and locals alike. Despite limited resources, he consistently highlighted the realities of life in Bastar.

Mukesh Chandrakar’s Death

Timeline of Events:

• January 1, 2025: Mukesh met Ritesh Chandrakar, the brother of contractor Suresh Chandrakar, who was linked to the road project corruption case Mukesh was investigating. Mukesh’s phone was turned off shortly afterward.
• January 2, 2025: Mukesh’s brother, Yukesh, filed a missing person report.
• January 3, 2025: Mukesh’s body was discovered in a septic tank on a property owned by Suresh Chandrakar in Chattanpara Basti. The septic tank had been freshly sealed with concrete, and Mukesh’s body bore injuries indicating foul play.

Investigation:

• The post-mortem report revealed that Mukesh suffered injuries to his head, chest, and stomach, likely caused by a heavy object.
• The Special Investigation Team (SIT), comprising 11 members, was formed to investigate his murder.
• Several suspects, including Suresh Chandrakar, were detained, and the police are continuing their inquiry.

Reactions:

• The Editors Guild of India condemned the incident and called for stronger protections for journalists.
• Local journalists highlighted the dangers of reporting in regions affected by conflict and corruption.
• Chhattisgarh’s Chief Minister promised swift action to bring the culprits to justice.

Family and Relationships

Mukesh was deeply connected to his family, especially his brother Yukesh Chandrakar, who played a crucial role in his upbringing after the death of their parents.

Physical Appearance

Mukesh Chandrakar was known for his humble personality and a charismatic presence that resonated with his audience.

Lesser-Known Facts

1. Mukesh helped negotiate the safe release of CRPF personnel abducted by Maoists in 2021.
2. His YouTube channel, “Bastar Junction,” was a critical platform for reporting on tribal issues.
3. Mukesh’s investigative reports prompted inquiries into government projects, including the Bastar road project.
4. He often received threats due to his fearless journalism.
5. Mukesh was inspired by his elder brother, Yukesh, to pursue a career in journalism.
6. He was widely praised for his empathetic coverage of tribal struggles in Bastar.
7. Mukesh supported other journalists by sharing his local network and insights.
8. He worked with limited resources but delivered impactful stories.
9. Mukesh’s work gained international attention after his reports on the Naxal insurgency.

FAQs

1. Q: What was Mukesh Chandrakar’s age at the time of his death?
   A: Mukesh was 28 years old.
2. Q: What was Mukesh Chandrakar’s profession?
   A: Mukesh was a journalist and YouTuber.
3. Q: How did Mukesh Chandrakar die?
   A: He was allegedly murdered, and his body was found in a septic tank.
4. Q: What is “Bastar Junction”?
   A: It is Mukesh’s YouTube channel that focused on tribal issues and Naxal conflict in Bastar.
5. Q: What major story was Mukesh working on before his death?
   A: He was investigating corruption in a ₹120-crore road project in Bastar.
6. Q: Who inspired Mukesh to pursue journalism?
   A: His elder brother, Yukesh Chandrakar, a journalist.
7. Q: What were Mukesh’s key contributions to journalism?
   A: Exposing corruption, reporting on tribal struggles, and negotiating the release of a CRPF jawan.

Conclusion

Mukesh Chandrakar was a fearless journalist whose work shed light on the realities of Bastar’s tribal communities and conflict zones. His tragic death is a stark reminder of the risks faced by investigative journalists. Mukesh’s legacy as a courageous voice for justice will continue to inspire future generations.

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Disclaimer

“NOTE: This article is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only. Readers are advised to verify the details independently from reliable sources.”