Mukesh Chandrakar’s murder exposes threats to journalistic freedom in India

Chhattisgarh & Andhra Pradesh: The brutal murder of journalist Mukesh Chandrakar has raised serious questions about the safety of journalists and the deteriorating law and order in Chhattisgarh. Meda Srinivas, General Secretary of the Journalists’ Democratic Rights Forum (JDRF), called it a reprehensible act that reflects an authoritarian regime and urged immediate justice for the slain journalist.

Attack on press freedom

Meda Srinivas condemned the growing violence against journalists, emphasizing that attacks, assaults, and murders of truth-seeking reporters are a direct assault on democracy.

He criticized the increasing brazenness of political vultures, alleging collusion between ruling powers and mafia groups to instill fear among journalists.

The murder of Mukesh Chandrakar, allegedly orchestrated by his own associates, has been termed a heinous act that highlights Chhattisgarh’s law-and-order challenges.

Call for justice

The JDRF demanded swift and decisive action from the state government:

Punishment for perpetrators: Establish a special court to expedite the trial and punish the guilty without delay.

Compensation for family: Announce Rs 1 crore as compensation to Mukesh Chandrakar’s family.

Implementation of Journalist Protection Law: Introduce a special security law to ensure the safety of journalists.

Concern over journalists’ safety

Meda Srinivas expressed concern over the declining solidarity among journalists due to the influence of corporate media.

He said that journalists face a lack of security in their profession, warning that if journalists unite, it would threaten the survival of authoritarian regimes.

He urged all journalists to come together in this critical time to fight for their rights and ensure justice for Chandrakar.

Demand for accountability

Srinivas criticized the indifference of political parties and leaders, stating their silence on Chandrakar’s murder is deeply troubling. He called on the Chhattisgarh government to take responsibility and act swiftly to restore trust in law enforcement and safeguard journalistic freedom.

“A united journalists’ fraternity is the need of the hour. If the pen of journalists unites, it will make the survival of oppressive rulers impossible,” warned Meda Srinivas.