In a chilling twist to the murder of Indore-based businessman Raja Raghuvanshi, Meghalaya Police on Thursday revealed that his wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi, has confessed to plotting his murder during their honeymoon. The incident took place in East Khasi Hills earlier this month and has sent shockwaves across both Meghalaya and Madhya Pradesh.
According to officials, Sonam accused Raj Kushwaha, a mutual acquaintance, of being the mastermind behind the conspiracy. However, police say the larger network and motive behind the killing are still under investigation.
Honeymoon Ends in Tragedy
Raja Raghuvanshi and Sonam had traveled to Meghalaya shortly after their wedding in May. On June 4, Raja was found dead under suspicious circumstances near a forested area close to Cherrapunji. What initially appeared to be a tragic accident soon turned into a murder investigation following inconsistencies in Sonam’s statement.
Preliminary autopsy reports confirmed blunt force trauma as the cause of death. Police also discovered signs of premeditation, prompting a deeper probe into the couple’s relationship and interactions before the trip.
Police Interrogation Reveals Dark Plot
Meghalaya Police took Sonam into custody after recovering phone records and financial transactions linking her to Raj Kushwaha. During intense interrogation, she confessed to her involvement.
“Sonam has admitted that she was aware of the plan to kill her husband and was a willing participant,” said East Khasi Hills SP Vivek Syiem. “She told us that Raj Kushwaha influenced her into thinking that Raja was abusive and posed a threat to her life.”
Kushwaha, who hails from Indore and has reportedly gone into hiding, is now the prime suspect. A non-bailable warrant has been issued for his arrest, and Indore Police are assisting Meghalaya authorities in tracing his whereabouts.
Motive Still Murky: Meghalaya Honeymoon Murder
Despite the confession, police say it is still unclear who orchestrated the murder. Investigators are probing whether there were financial interests, property disputes, or past relationships involved in the planning.
“We suspect there may be more people involved,” SP Syiem said. “There is a possibility that the murder was funded or supported by a larger network. We are examining all angles.”
The police are also exploring whether Sonam was manipulated or coerced into the act. Psychological evaluations are being conducted to understand her mental state at the time of the crime.
Cross-State Probe Underway
The case has led to an interstate investigation involving the Meghalaya Police, Madhya Pradesh Police, and Indore Crime Branch. Authorities have seized multiple electronic devices, including phones and laptops, from both Raja’s residence and Raj Kushwaha’s known addresses.
Police are analyzing bank transactions, travel records, and digital communication between the accused and the victim in the months leading up to the murder.
An Interpol lookout notice may be issued if Kushwaha is not traced within a week, officials confirmed.
Family Demands Swift Justice
Raja’s family, based in Indore, has demanded strict punishment for the culprits. They have alleged that Sonam married Raja under false pretenses and was part of a pre-planned financial scheme to eliminate him.
“We want nothing less than a death sentence for those involved,” said Raja’s elder brother. “This was not just murder. It was betrayal of the worst kind.”
CM Assures Action On Meghalaya Honeymoon Murder
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has assured that justice will be delivered. In a public statement, he said the police are fully empowered to pursue every lead and that the state government is committed to cracking the case.
Citizens are urged to share any leads or suspicious information through the official Meghalaya Police portal or by contacting the local police station.
Authorities urge public cooperation as the manhunt for the key accused continues. For updates and official information, follow the Meghalaya Home Department and verify facts before sharing on social media.