Corruption and Murder: Investigating Chhattisgarh's Road Construction Scandal

In a significant crackdown on corruption, Chhattisgarh police have arrested five Public Works Department (PWD) officials, including three currently serving and two retired, over alleged irregularities in a road construction project in Bijapur. This move follows an investigation sparked by a report from now deceased journalist Mukesh Chandrakar, who was killed earlier this year.

The road project in question, situated in the Naxal-affected Bastar region, came under scrutiny after Chandrakar revealed poor quality work and possible embezzlement. Following his report, Suresh Chandrakar, the contractor, along with his two brothers and an associate, were arrested for their alleged involvement in Chandrakar's murder.

Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao confirmed that a PWD probe committee found significant misconduct in the project's execution, leading to the recent arrests. The findings highlighted a potential nexus between officials and the contractor, resulting in financial loss to the government.

(With inputs from agencies.)