The Meghalaya Police, investigating the murder of Indore-based businessman Raja Raghuvanshi, recreated the crime scene on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at Wei Sawdong Falls in Sohra (Cherrapunji). The exercise involved taking the accused, including Raja's wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi, and three alleged hitmen, to the location where Raja was allegedly murdered during their honeymoon on May 23.

According to East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem, the crime scene reconstruction was successful in providing a clearer picture of the events that transpired. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) visited several locations, starting from Mawlakhiat village up to the Wei Sawdong Falls parking lot, to retrace how the murder was planned and executed. The reconstruction was based on interrogations conducted over the past few days, during which the accused confessed to the offense.

SP Syiem revealed that Sonam was present when Raja was attacked. The three alleged killers – Akash, Vishal, and Anand – were positioned behind the victim. As per the reconstruction, Sonam was in front when Raja was initially struck. After the first blow to the head, Raja screamed, and Sonam purportedly moved away from the spot. Once Raja was dead, the assailants allegedly threw his body into the gorge. According to police, Sonam had already admitted to the scheme and signaled to the trio to carry out the act.

The police have also learned that two machetes were used in the murder, and they are currently trying to recover the second weapon. One machete has already been recovered. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) is assisting in the search, utilizing hand-held metal detectors. Additionally, Akash showed the police where he discarded his blood-stained white shirt, which was found near Raja's body.

SP Syiem further noted inconsistencies in the accused's statements, emphasizing the need to corroborate the facts. The police are also exploring other possible motives beyond the apparent love triangle. According to Meghalaya DGP Idashisha Nongrang, it is unusual for animosity to develop so quickly within a few days of marriage, prompting the investigation into additional angles.

Sonam's mental state was also assessed on Monday at the Meghalaya Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, where she was found to be mentally sound.

Raja's family has made serious allegations, including the use of black magic. Raja's father, Ashok Raghuvanshi, claimed that Sonam used "tantra mantra" on his son and had him hang a bundle-like object at their home, supposedly to ward off evil. Raja's brother, Sachin, went further, calling the murder a human sacrifice, alleging that Sonam intended to improve her father's health through occult practices.

As the investigation continues, the Meghalaya Police are working to file the chargesheet within the stipulated legal timeframe and are seeking assistance from Assam Police and other states where the accused traveled.