Meghalaya/Indore | June 9, 2025:
In a chilling twist to what initially seemed like a tragic accident during a honeymoon, the mystery behind the death of Indore resident Raja Raghuvanshi has taken a dark turn. Meghalaya Police have confirmed the arrest of his wife, Sonam, who allegedly orchestrated her husband’s murder by hiring contract killers.
The newlywed couple had embarked on a scenic honeymoon trip to Meghalaya in late May. However, by May 23, both were reported missing. On June 2, Raja Raghuvanshi’s body was discovered in a deep gorge near a remote tourist location. His wife, Sonam, was missing, prompting fears of a possible kidnapping or second victim scenario. But police investigations have now revealed a far more sinister plot.
Sonam Arrested in Uttar Pradesh After Surrender
According to Meghalaya Director General of Police (DGP) Idashisha Nongrang, the investigation team tracked Sonam to Uttar Pradesh’s Ghazipur district, where she voluntarily surrendered at Nandganj Police Station on Sunday. The police officially arrested her shortly afterward.
“Sonam was found in Ghazipur and surrendered before the police. She was taken into custody after verifying her identity and involvement. This marks a crucial development in the case,” said DGP Nongrang in a press statement.
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed to probe the case, and swift action followed. In coordinated overnight raids, three other accused were also apprehended — one from Uttar Pradesh and two from Indore. All of them are allegedly involved in executing the murder-for-hire plan orchestrated by Sonam.
The Chilling Timeline: From Honeymoon to Homicide
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May 20: Raja Raghuvanshi and Sonam arrive in Meghalaya for their honeymoon.
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May 21-22: They tour various scenic spots across East Khasi Hills and surrounding areas.
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May 23: Both go missing; family members back in Indore report them untraceable.
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June 2: Locals discover Raja’s body in a gorge. His injuries suggest foul play.
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June 3-7: Police intensify the search for Sonam and possible suspects.
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June 8: Sonam surrenders at Nandganj Police Station in Uttar Pradesh. Three others arrested in connection with the murder.
Police sources have indicated that the murder was premeditated. Sonam allegedly maintained contact with hired killers through encrypted messaging services. The suspects coordinated travel and location details to ensure the crime was carried out without attracting attention.
The hired men reportedly pushed Raja into the gorge after isolating him during one of the couple’s excursions. Initial attempts to disguise the death as a trekking accident failed after forensic clues and call records pointed to a deeper conspiracy.
Motive Behind the Murder
While police have not publicly disclosed the exact motive, sources close to the investigation suggest a financial angle. Sonam allegedly stood to gain from her husband’s life insurance and had also been in contact with a previous partner. Investigators are now delving into her past relationships and bank transactions to uncover a clearer picture.
A senior officer involved in the investigation remarked,
“We are not ruling out any angle. Preliminary interrogation reveals long-term planning. We are analyzing digital evidence and cross-checking travel logs to establish a solid case.”
Public Reaction and Family Grief
The murder has sparked widespread shock in both Indore and Meghalaya. Social media is abuzz with outrage over the calculated nature of the killing. In Indore, friends and family of Raja Raghuvanshi held candlelight vigils demanding swift justice.
Raja’s father, Mahesh Raghuvanshi, told reporters,
“We never imagined something like this. Our son had just started a new life. If this was pre-planned, it’s not just betrayal — it’s a crime beyond forgiveness.”
Locals in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya have also expressed their concern over safety for tourists in the region. While Meghalaya has been considered one of the safer northeastern destinations, this incident has put the spotlight on the need for improved tourist safety and monitoring.
