Javier Valdez Cárdenas – Status: Solved
April 13, 2026
Gauri Lankesh was shot and killed outside her home in Bengaluru, India, in September 2017 after years of outspoken journalism criticizing extremism, caste discrimination, and political polarization. Her murder is widely linked to her work as a journalist and editor.
Gauri Lankesh’s last words/work : She was the editor of the Kannada-language weekly Gauri Lankesh Patrike, where she wrote extensively against right-wing extremism, misinformation, and social injustice. She was also known for her vocal criticism of communal politics and advocacy for secular values.
Journalist Information:
Name: Gauri Lankesh
Age: 55
Gender: Female
DOB: 29/01/1962
Nationality: Mexico
Last company worked for: Editor of Gauri Lankesh Patrike
Family: Daughter of noted journalist P. Lankesh; survived by family members, including her siblings
Incident Information:
Date of incident – September 5, 2017
Location of the incident – Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Offense victim of: Targeted Killing, Murder
Weapons included – Firearms (shot multiple times at close range)
Suspect(s) Information:
Name: individuals linked to extremist Hindu nationalist groups; several suspects associated with groups like Sanatan Sanstha were arrested and charged.
Proof of Targeting the Journalist: Gauri Lankesh was shot outside her residence shortly after returning home. CCTV footage captured the assailant approaching and firing multiple rounds before fleeing. Investigators concluded the killing was premeditated and linked to her journalistic work and public positions.
Reason for Killing: Lankesh’s consistent criticism of right-wing extremism, her opposition to communal violence, and her efforts to counter misinformation made her a prominent target. Authorities and investigators have linked the motive to ideological opposition to her journalism.
Progress of the Case: Multiple arrests have been made in connection with the murder. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed by the Karnataka government charged several individuals under anti-terror laws. As of recent updates, trials have been ongoing, with authorities presenting evidence of a broader conspiracy involving extremist networks. Some accused individuals remain in custody while judicial proceedings continue.
Read More: https://cpj.org/2025/09/cpj-urges-justice-8-years-after-indian-journalist-gauri-lankeshs-murder/