Introduction
In a case that has gripped the entire nation, Sonam Raghuwanshi has been arrested for allegedly orchestrating the brutal murder of her husband, Raja Raghuwanshi, during their honeymoon in Meghalaya. The shocking turn of events unfolded after both went missing during a trek near Cherrapunji. Within two weeks, police unearthed a disturbing plot that has left India stunned.
1. Disappearance in Paradise
On May 23, 2025, Sonam and Raja, a newlywed couple from Indore, went missing while exploring the scenic living root bridges near Nongriat village in Meghalaya. Authorities initially treated it as a missing persons case. However, suspicions grew after Sonam was untraceable, and Raja’s decomposed body was discovered in a remote forested area on June 2.
2. CCTV Footage and Suspicious Activity
Crucial CCTV footage from a local guest house in Cherrapunji revealed that the couple was last seen with three unidentified men, believed to have Hindi-speaking backgrounds. Locals later confirmed seeing the group hiking together. This became the turning point in the case.
3. Police Breakthrough: Sonam Accused of Hiring Contract Killers
According to East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police, Rituraj Ravi, Sonam allegedly hired three contract killers—including her lover Raj Kushwaha—to murder her husband. The hired men were reportedly from Madhya Pradesh and had accompanied the couple to Meghalaya under false identities. After extensive digital tracking, all three were arrested.
4. Sonam Surrenders in Ghazipur
After days of being untraceable, Sonam surrendered to the police in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, on June 8. While her family claims she voluntarily came forward, police say she was apprehended based on a prior lookout notice. Following interrogation, she was handed over to Meghalaya police for further investigation.
5. Sonam’s Family Denies Charges
Sonam’s father, Devi Singh, has publicly stated that his daughter is innocent and framed. He alleges that the Meghalaya police fabricated evidence and demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe for a fair trial. “My daughter is being used as a scapegoat,” he claimed in an interview.
6. Motive Behind the Murder
As per police reports, the motive appears to be an extramarital affair between Sonam and Raj Kushwaha. Investigators claim she planned the murder to start a new life with him. Police have recovered mobile chats and transaction evidence hinting at the conspiracy, though the case is still under investigation.
7. Forensic Evidence and Digital Clues
- Raja’s autopsy confirmed death due to blunt force trauma to the head.
- Sonam’s mobile data revealed chats with the accused men before and after the murder.
- Police have also recovered a red car used by the suspects to travel across Meghalaya.
8. Political and Public Reactions
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma praised the swift action of the local police, saying, “Within 10 days, a highly complex case was cracked.” Meanwhile, the public is debating the role of technology, digital footprints, and how an alleged love triangle turned into a gruesome murder story.
9. What’s Next?
Meghalaya police are preparing to file a detailed chargesheet. Meanwhile, Sonam Raghuwanshi is being held in police custody for further interrogation. A demand for a CBI inquiry may impact the jurisdiction of the case. Legal analysts expect the trial to begin by mid-July 2025.
Conclusion
The Sonam Raghuwanshi case has quickly become one of India’s most talked-about crimes of 2025. It highlights a grim tale of betrayal, manipulation, and premeditated murder under the guise of love and marriage. As investigations continue and legal proceedings commence, the country watches with bated breath. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
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