The body of journalist Mukesh Chandrakar, 28, was discovered in a septic tank at a road contractor's property in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, on January 3. Mukesh had been missing since January 1 after receiving a call from the contractor's cousin. His body was found with head and back injuries. The police launched an investigation after Mukesh's brother filed a missing person's complaint on January 2. His phone's last known location led to the contractor's residence, where the septic tank was found recently sealed. 

Three individuals, including contractor Suresh Chandrakar, have been arrested. Authorities are investigating if the murder relates to Mukesh's journalistic work. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai condemned the incident and vowed to ensure the perpetrators face strict punishment. The Chhattisgarh Congress also expressed concern about the growing threats to journalists.