What was meant to be a romantic honeymoon in the hills of Meghalaya turned into one of India’s most disturbing murder mysteries. Sonam Raghuwanshi, a 26-year-old woman from Indore, Madhya Pradesh, is now at the center of an alleged conspiracy to murder her husband, Raja Raghuwanshi, during their post-wedding trip to the northeast.
The shocking case has gripped the nation with its blend of love, betrayal, and a meticulously planned murder in the backdrop of a scenic tourist hotspot. As facts unfold and new revelations surface every day, TravellerScribe brings you a full report of what really happened.
The Perfect Couple on Instagram
On the surface, everything seemed normal. Social media was filled with pictures of the newlywed couple, smiling against the stunning backdrop of Shillong’s hills and waterfalls. Their posts from cafes, local sightseeing spots, and even en route videos gave no hint of the storm brewing beneath. For friends and followers, they looked like any other happy couple, exploring the beauty of Meghalaya.
But according to investigators, this trip was allegedly used by Sonam as the setting for a premeditated murder. Police say it wasn’t a crime of passion, but a cold and calculated act.
The Incident: Murder at a Guesthouse in Shillong
On June 2, Raja Raghuwanshi was found dead in a guesthouse in Shillong. Initial reports suggested he died under mysterious circumstances. As local police began digging, signs pointed not to a natural death or accident but to a homicide.
CCTV footage, witness testimonies, phone call records, and even deleted WhatsApp messages led police to suspect Sonam’s involvement. Her behavior following the death and inconsistencies in her statements further raised suspicion.
The Plot: An Affair, a Financial Motive, and a Murder Deal
Investigations revealed that Sonam allegedly conspired with her former accountant, Raj Kushwaha, who is believed to be her ex-lover. According to police sources, Sonam was in frequent contact with Raj even after marriage.
Reports claim that Sonam and Raj allegedly planned Raja’s murder well in advance. They are believed to have offered Rs 20 lakh to hired killers to execute the plan during the couple’s honeymoon. Police suspect that firearms were sourced from Guwahati, and some digital payment trails may lead back to hired associates.
Arrest and Transit Remand
After intense questioning and evidence collection, Sonam was arrested and taken into custody. A Ghazipur court granted a three-day transit remand, after which Meghalaya Police brought her to Shillong for further interrogation. She is now in police custody in Shillong.
A new twist came in when authorities conducted a pregnancy test on Sonam while in custody. Though results were inconclusive, doctors have recommended an ultrasound after a week. This medical angle has added further layers to an already tangled investigation.
Family Reactions
Raja’s family has demanded strict punishment for Sonam. They accuse her of deceiving their son and ending his life for greed and selfish motives. On the other hand, Sonam’s father has claimed his daughter is innocent and has called for a CBI investigation, claiming she is being framed.
Public outrage has grown, especially on social media where netizens are sharing photos, discussing theories, and demanding justice.
What Happens Next?
With the investigation still ongoing, all eyes are on the Meghalaya Police. They are currently tracing digital evidence, including financial transactions, call records, and location data. Interrogations of Raj Kushwaha and other suspects are underway.
Legal experts believe that if convicted, Sonam could face life imprisonment or even the death penalty under Indian Penal Code Sections 302 (murder) and 120B (criminal conspiracy).
Safety Reminder for Travelers
This case serves as a grim reminder that even beautiful destinations are not immune to dark realities. While rare, personal crimes during travel can occur, and it is essential to prioritize both emotional and physical safety.
TravellerScribe recommends that couples share live locations with family, maintain open communication, and avoid isolating themselves in remote areas without security.
