Sonam Raghuvanshi back in custody after SC cancels bail

Shillong: Sonam Raghuvanshi, one of the main accused in the murder of her husband Raja Raghuvanshi during their honeymoon trip to Meghalaya, surrendered before a trial court after the Supreme Court cancelled her bail.

She appeared before the court in Shillong after the apex court directed her to surrender within three weeks. Following her surrender, she was sent to judicial custody.

East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem confirmed that Sonam had surrendered before the trial court. She had been out on bail for nearly three months before the Supreme Court’s order.

Supreme Court cancels bail

On July 23, the Supreme Court set aside the bail granted to Sonam and directed her to return to custody. The court observed that her continued release could affect the ongoing trial.

The court also said that if the trial does not progress and conclude within six months, Sonam would be allowed to approach the court again for bail.

Earlier, the Meghalaya High Court had upheld the trial court’s decision granting her bail, rejecting the state government’s plea seeking cancellation of the relief.

What is the Meghalaya honeymoon murder case?

The case relates to the death of Raja Raghuvanshi, who was allegedly murdered during his honeymoon trip to Meghalaya in May 2025.

Raja and Sonam had travelled to the Sohra area of Meghalaya and went missing on May 23, 2025. Raja’s body was later recovered from a gorge on June 2.

Meghalaya Police alleged that Sonam had conspired with others, including her alleged associate Raj Kushwaha, and hired contract killers to murder Raja. The allegations are part of the police investigation and will be tested during the trial.

Chargesheet filed in the case

The Meghalaya Police have filed a 790-page chargesheet before the Judicial Magistrate First Class court in Sohra subdivision, naming five accused in connection with Raja Raghuvanshi’s murder. Raja’s brother Vipin Raghuvanshi welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision and said he hoped the trial would conclude quickly and those found guilty would receive punishment.

The case remains under judicial proceedings, with further developments expected as the trial continues.