Arunachal: APUWJ Condemns Journalist’s Murder Linked to Corruption Exposé in Chhattisgarh

ITANAGAR: The Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ) condemned the murder of independent journalist Mukesh Chandrakar, whose body was found in a septic tank four days after reporting on corruption in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh.

Chandrakar, who had written for a national news outlet, had just published an investigative piece that brought to light some irregularities in a road construction project handled by a local contractor. Chandrakar went missing after public outcry over the allegations. Later, his body was found at the contractor's place by the authorities.

The APUWJ strongly condemned the event in their press statement and said this incident was a grave attack on press freedom as well as an alarming reflection of risks journalists run today in uncovering corruption. The union expressed deep concern, calling for immediate action to ensure the safety of media personnel across the country.

Amar Sangno, President of the APUWJ, called for the protection of journalists. He said that threats and violence against those pursuing accountability weaken the democratic framework. "Journalists should not have to fear for their lives while working to bring truth to light," he stated.

The APUWJ urged the state and central governments to conduct a fair and extensive inquiry into Chandrakar's murder, besides taking necessary measures to ensure the safety of journalists engaged with high-risk crime and corruption stories.

Highlighting a broader trend of violence against the media, the union underscored the urgency of creating a safe environment for journalists to operate without intimidation or harm. Chandrakar’s death has reverberated across the media fraternity, intensifying calls for reforms to strengthen press freedom and accountability mechanisms.

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