Shillong: In a significant development in the Meghalaya honeymoon murder case, police have arrested Raj Kushwaha, the alleged lover of Sonam Raghuvanshi, for allegedly orchestrating the murder of her husband, Raja Raghuvanshi.

Suspected conspiracy hatched by lover

Recent media reports attribute the murder’s orchestration to Raj Kushwaha. Police investigations indicate that Sonam and Raj were romantically involved at the time of the murder

Furthermore, the Meghalaya Police indicated that Sonam surrendered “under pressure”, underscoring her central entanglement in the scheme

Brother raises suspicions about Sonam’s role

Vipul Raghuvanshi, brother of the deceased, reacted with shock as further details emerged. Speaking to media, he said:

“I had no idea about those 3–4 people until I heard their names. Now that Raj Kushwaha’s name has surfaced, it suggests that Sonam may have been involved in the murder. Raj Kushwaha was her employee, and they used to speak on the phone frequently.”

“Everything seemed fine. Both Sonam and Raja appeared happy when their marriage was arranged. We never imagined Sonam would be capable of something like this. I believe the Meghalaya government is not lying about others being involved in the crime. I’ve never seen Raj Kushwaha in person, only heard his name,” he added.

Strange honeymoon detour to Meghalaya

Vipul also described the couple’s travel itinerary saying, “They were only supposed to go to Assam to offer prayers at the Maa Kamakhya Temple. Later, they informed us they were heading to Shillong. We don’t know who planned the Meghalaya trip. They hadn’t even booked return tickets.”

Background of the case

Raja (29) and Sonam (25), newly married tourists from Indore, disappeared on 23 May during their honeymoon in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills. Their rented scooter was found deserted near Shillong-Sohra road; a local guide observed them heading into Nongriat with three unknown men

On 2 June, Raja’s body was found in a gorge close to Wei Sawdong Falls. Forensic evidence, including a blood-stained machete and a raincoat, prompted police to conclude the death was a homicide

Current status

Sonam surrendered to police in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, motivated by pressure as outlined by the Meghalaya police. Meanwhile, three other suspects have been detained. 
(With agency inputs)