Shillong, June 11, 2025 – A Meghalaya court on Wednesday ordered eight days of police custody for Sonam Raghuvanshi and four accomplices. They are accused of murdering her husband, Raja Raghuvanshi, during their honeymoon in the state.
Court Proceedings
The accused appeared before the District and Sessions Court in Shillong. Heavy security was in place. Police sought a 10-day remand but were granted eight days. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) aims to reconstruct the crime scene in Sohra.
Case Background
Raja Raghuvanshi, a 29-year-old businessman from Indore, was found dead in a gorge on June 2. The couple had married on May 11 and arrived in Meghalaya on May 21. They went missing on May 23 during a trek in Sohra. Sonam surfaced in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, on June 9 and surrendered.
Allegations and Arrests
Police allege Sonam orchestrated the murder with her alleged lover, Raj Kushwaha. Three others—Akash Rajput, Vishal Singh Chauhan, and Anand Kurmi—were hired to execute the killing. Sonam reportedly offered ₹20 lakh to the killers, paying ₹15,000 from Raja’s wallet during the crime. All five were arrested across Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
Conflicting Claims
Sonam confessed to plotting the murder, according to police sources. She broke down when presented with evidence, including CCTV footage and call records. However, some reports claim she alleged abduction and denied involvement. Her brother, Govind, supports Raja’s family, believing Sonam is guilty.
Ongoing Investigation
The SIT is interrogating the accused to determine the mastermind. Police recovered clothes worn during the murder from Indore, but Sonam’s phone remains missing. Meghalaya Police dismissed Sonam’s claim of being drugged.
Public and Official Reactions
Raja’s family apologized to the Meghalaya government, citing damage to the state’s image. They thanked the police for their swift investigation. Meghalaya’s Tourism Minister had demanded apologies from both families for tarnishing the state’s reputation.
Next Steps
The accused remain in custody until June 19. Police continue to probe the motive, focusing on Sonam’s alleged affair and the conspiracy’s planning. The case has gripped India, with calls for severe punishment.
