Shillong | A shocking revelation has come to light in the murder of Indore-based transport businessman Raja Raghuvanshi. The Meghalaya Police confirmed that Raja was brutally killed in front of his wife Sonam, who is now the prime accused in the case.
A Deadly Conspiracy Driven by Love and Greed
Raja and Sonam had been married on May 11. Just 12 days later, on May 23, Sonam executed a meticulously planned murder with her lover Raj Kushwah. Their plan was simple yet sinister – kill the husband during a vacation, pretend to be a grieving widow, and marry her lover later without family objections.
The Murder Scene
Sonam took Raja to the Double Decker Bridge near Shillong for sightseeing. Meanwhile, three men—Vishal Chauhan, Akash Rajput, and Anand—joined them. As they approached a secluded area, Sonam stayed behind and shouted, “Kill him!” Vishal struck Raja on the head with a locally purchased small axe (‘daw’), killing him on the spot.
Murder for Hire: ₹20 Lakh Offer
When the hired killers hesitated due to the difficult terrain, Sonam offered ₹20 lakh as a bribe to finish the job. She even handed them ₹15,000 from Raja’s wallet as an advance.
Evidence and Arrests
- Call Detail Records (CDRs) revealed Sonam’s deep connection with Raj Kushwah.
- Police tracked down the rented moped used by Raja-Sonam and Akash’s surveillance bike.
- Raj stayed in Indore during the murder to avoid suspicion, while the three others reached Shillong.
Arrest and Investigation
Sonam was taken into transit remand by Meghalaya Police on June 9. Detailed interrogation is underway regarding her role, the financial angle, and the involvement of co-accused.
Home Minister’s Statement
Meghalaya Home Minister Preston Tynsong said, “Our police were falsely accused, but we have now brought the truth to light. This case was critical for the state’s tourism image.”
