In a case that has left the country stunned, the Meghalaya honeymoon murder has emerged as one of the most chilling crime stories in recent times. A romantic honeymoon turned into a horrifying tale of betrayal and murder. Twenty-nine-year-old Raja Raghuvanshi from Indore was found dead in Meghalaya’s scenic Cherrapunji region, allegedly murdered by his wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi, and her lover, Raj Kushwaha. What began as a missing person report has now evolved into one of the most disturbing murder investigations of the year.
The Disappearance That Triggered Alarm
The Meghalaya honeymoon murder investigation began after Raja and Sonam arrived in Meghalaya in May for what was supposed to be a peaceful honeymoon. On May 23, the couple checked out of a homestay near Nongriat and vanished while on a nature trail. Their scooter was later discovered abandoned on the Shillong-Sohra road. Days passed without a trace until June 2, when Raja’s body was found at the bottom of a gorge near Wei Sawdong Falls. His throat was slit, and his valuables, including jewelry and wallet, were missing.
From Wife to Prime Suspect
Initial theories in the Meghalaya honeymoon murder case considered Raja a victim of robbery, but mounting evidence quickly turned suspicion toward his wife, Sonam. CCTV footage and call records painted a different picture—one of premeditated murder. Authorities believe Sonam had orchestrated the entire trip as part of a plot to eliminate her husband, with the help of her 21-year-old lover, Raj Kushwaha.
A Love Affair Turned Deadly
Raj Kushwaha, reportedly a former employee of Sonam’s family business, is alleged to have had a romantic relationship with her for over a year. Investigators say that Kushwaha hired three young men from Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh to carry out the murder. The attackers allegedly arrived in Meghalaya by train and then moved to the crime scene under Kushwaha’s guidance, armed with a machete he provided.
The three accused—Akash Rajput (19), Vishal Singh Chauhan (22), and Anand Singh Kurmi (23)—have since been arrested. A chilling detail in the Meghalaya honeymoon murder is that these men camped in the forest, waited for the couple, and ambushed Raja during a trek, brutally murdering him and pushing his body into the gorge.
Deeper Motives: Love, Money, or Both?
While the alleged love affair forms the emotional core of the Meghalaya honeymoon murder, Raja’s family believes there may be a financial angle as well. His mother claims that Sonam planned the honeymoon without involving the family and insisted that Raja wear gold jewelry worth ₹10 lakh. She also alleges that Sonam withdrew ₹9 lakh from his account shortly before the trip. These claims have prompted investigators to explore the possibility that the crime was not only personal but also financially motivated.
Sonam’s Surrender Raises More Questions
On June 8, Sonam surrendered to authorities at a dhaba in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, claiming that she had been drugged and didn’t know how she ended up there. However, the police found no evidence to support her version. She has since been remanded to police custody and is being transported to Meghalaya for further questioning related to the Meghalaya honeymoon murder case.
An Unsettling Funeral Twist
Perhaps the most disturbing revelation in the Meghalaya honeymoon murder is Raj Kushwaha’s behavior after the crime. Eyewitnesses and reports confirm that he helped Raja’s family organize the funeral, pretended to grieve, and maintained a façade of innocence—all while knowing he was involved in the brutal killing. This calculated deception has deeply shocked investigators and the nation alike.
The Investigation Continues
Meghalaya police, along with a Special Investigation Team (SIT), have been working relentlessly on the Meghalaya honeymoon murder case. They’ve collected CCTV footage, mobile data, and witness statements to build a strong case. One suspect remains absconding, but authorities are confident of apprehending him soon and bringing all the accused to justice.
A Blow to Tourist Confidence?
The Meghalaya honeymoon murder has raised serious concerns about tourist safety in India’s Northeast. While Meghalaya is known for its natural beauty and hospitality, this targeted crime involving individuals from outside the state has cast a temporary shadow. The Chief Minister has reassured the public and tourists that such acts are isolated and not indicative of the state’s overall safety or culture.
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