A Honeymoon That Turned Deadly in Shillong
What was meant to be a romantic honeymoon in Shillong, India, turned into a chilling homicide investigation after businessman Raja Raghuvanshi was found dead in a remote canyon. His new bride, Sonam Raghuvanshi, who first appeared as a grieving spouse, is now accused of masterminding the crime.
From Missing Husband to Murder Inquiry
On May 20, Raja and Sonam arrived in Shillong, a hill station famous for waterfalls, winding roads, and serene valleys. Within days, Raja went missing. Soon after, search teams recovered a decomposed body from a gorge—injuries consistent with a fall or deliberate push from a height. The absence of ID and a missing wedding ring delayed identification, but the victim was later confirmed as Raja.
The Lover and the Alleged Conspiracy
Initial suspicion fell on Raj Kushwaha, described as Sonam’s lover. But phone records, digital footprints, and testimony shifted the focus: investigators now allege Sonam orchestrated the murder, using promises of money and romance to draw others into her plot.
According to police, she enlisted three men—Vishal Singh, Anand Kurmi, and Akash Rajput—with the promise of payment. Their task was simple but deadly: follow Raja, isolate him, and ensure he never returned home.
How the Plot Allegedly Played Out
Investigators outline the chain of events:
Tracking: Sonam allegedly monitored Raja’s movements and passed updates to the accomplices.
Timing: The attack likely occurred between May 23 and May 24, when Raja was away from Sonam and unnoticed by others.
Method: He was allegedly pushed into a gorge—a fall designed to cause fatal injuries and complicate identification.
Cover-up: His wedding ring and ID were removed to delay recognition.
These elements point to planning and intent, not accident or impulse.
Another Twist: Indore and a Second Target
After the killing, Raj Kushwaha returned to Indore, believing Raja was gone and that he could now be with Sonam. Instead, police say he discovered her involvement with yet another man—and that she allegedly intended to have Raj eliminated too. The case, investigators suggest, wasn’t a love triangle but a pattern of use and betrayal.
The Motive
Authorities have not confirmed a single motive, but money, control, and multiple relationships appear central. Police highlight the promised payouts to accomplices and Sonam’s alleged attempt to dispose of more than one partner.
Key Evidence to Watch
The prosecution’s case will hinge on:
Digital trails: Calls, texts, and location data.
Financial records: Payments or transfers to accomplices.
Forensics: Signs of struggle, trajectory of the fall, trace evidence.
Missing items: Recovery of Raja’s wedding ring or documents.
Witnesses: Accomplice testimony, backed by hard evidence.
Possible Charges
If proven, charges could include murder, criminal conspiracy, and destruction of evidence. Under the law, a mastermind can be punished as severely as the one who delivers the fatal act.
Why the Case Gripped Public Attention
Dubbed the “honeymoon murder,” the case embodies ultimate betrayal: a newlywed allegedly using marriage as a cover for murder. Shillong’s tourist backdrop—isolated landscapes, transient visitors, and fewer local witnesses—provided both opportunity for crime and hurdles for investigators.
Impact on Tourism and Community
High-profile crimes like this can shake both residents and tourists. While authorities stress that Shillong remains safe, the case underscores the need for basic precautions when traveling:
Share itineraries with trusted contacts.
Stay connected independently.
Avoid remote areas without reliable company or clear plans.
What Remains Unproven
Much is still alleged. The exact motive, financial dealings, and communication timeline must be tested in court. Telecom and digital data are powerful but need authentication. Until trial and verdict, all accused remain legally innocent.