A Dream Turned Nightmare
What began as a romantic honeymoon for newlyweds Raja and Sonam Raghuvanshi turned into a chilling tragedy in Meghalaya. The couple from Indore, Madhya Pradesh, embarked on their journey on May 20, 2025, eager to explore the picturesque landscapes of Cherrapunji (Sohra). However, by May 23, Raja was found dead, and Sonam had vanished without a trace. The discovery of Raja’s decomposed body in a deep gorge beneath the Wei Sawdong Falls on June 2 raised immediate suspicions of foul play. A machete, believed to be the murder weapon, was found nearby, and signs of theft, including missing gold jewellery, further pointed to homicide.
The Missing Bride and the Unravelling Mystery
Initially, Sonam was reported missing, and her sudden disappearance added to the mystery. Her last known communication was a phone call to her mother around 1:43 PM on May 23. Subsequent investigations revealed that she had been in contact with three men during the trip. A local guide, Albert Pde, reported seeing the couple with these men on the day they went missing, which led authorities to suspect foul play.
The Arrests and Confessions
On June 9, 2025, Sonam surrendered to the police in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh. She was arrested along with three others: Raj Singh Kushwaha, Vishal Singh Chauhan, and Anand Kurmi. Investigations revealed that Sonam had allegedly conspired with her lover, Raj Singh Kushwaha, to have her husband murdered during their honeymoon. The arrested individuals reportedly confessed to being hired by Sonam to carry out the killing.
The Motive Behind the Murder
While the exact motive remains unclear, speculation suggests that Sonam may have been involved in an extramarital affair with Raj Singh Kushwaha, which could have led to the conspiracy. However, her father has denied these allegations and called for a federal CBI investigation, alleging police misconduct.
Public Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
The case has garnered widespread media attention and public outrage. Raja’s family has demanded capital punishment for those involved, while Sonam’s family has called for a CBI inquiry, alleging that she was innocent and had been coerced into confessing. Meghalaya officials have defended their investigation, stating that significant progress has been made in a short time.
Conclusion
The murder of Raja Raghuvanshi during what was supposed to be a joyous honeymoon has shocked the nation. The swift investigation and arrests highlight the effectiveness of law enforcement in addressing such heinous crimes. As the legal proceedings unfold, the case serves as a grim reminder of the complexities that can lie beneath the surface of personal relationships.
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