The investigation into the murder of Raja Raghuvanshi, an Indore-based businessman killed while on his honeymoon in Meghalaya, continues to reveal disturbing details. While authorities initially suspected a love triangle as the primary motive, new evidence suggests a more complex plot. Raja's wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi, her boyfriend Raj Kushwaha, and three hitmen—Vishal, Anand, and Akash—have been arrested in connection with the crime.
Recent developments include the recovery of a second machete used in the murder. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) brought the accused to Sohra, the scene of the crime, to reconstruct the events. During the reconstruction, the accused revealed the location where they had discarded the second weapon. According to police sources, both machetes were purchased from the same shop in Guwahati, Assam.
The crime scene reconstruction provided chilling insights into the murder. East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem told reporters that Raja was attacked by surprise. Vishal struck the first blow from behind while Sonam stood in front of him. The blow was so forceful that Vishal used both hands. Anand then delivered the second blow, followed by Akash. Syiem refuted claims that Raja's death was due to falling into a gorge, stating that he died from the machete blows. After the attack, the three hitmen threw Raja's body into the gorge.
Further investigation revealed that Sonam damaged Raja's mobile phone, and Vishal further destroyed it after the murder. Sonam has reportedly confessed to the crime and admitted to being present during the murder. According to Syiem, Sonam stood by as the three men killed Raja and then disposed of the body.
Adding another layer to the investigation, new CCTV footage has emerged. One video shows Raja leaving his Indore home for his honeymoon. In the video, he is seen with a sling bag and appears to be waiting for transportation to the airport. Police noted that the bag resembled one found at the Meghalaya homestay with Sonam's belongings, including her mangalsutra and ring. This discovery initially alerted police to the possibility of foul play in what was first reported as a missing person case.
Another CCTV footage from the Shillong hotel where the couple stayed shows Raja and Sonam checking in on May 22, a day before Raja went missing. The footage shows Sonam constantly on her phone, which investigators suspect was used to coordinate with the hitmen.
Adding to the mystery, Raja's father, Ashok Raghuvanshi, alleged that Sonam practiced "tantra-mantra" (black magic) and may have used it on his son. He recalled an incident where, at Sonam's urging, Raja hung a "bundle-like thing" on their house's main door to ward off evil. After Raja's murder, the family removed the bundle.
Meghalaya DGP Idashisha Nongrang stated that investigators are exploring all possible angles and are not limiting their investigation to the love triangle. The SIT is seeking assistance from police in Assam and other states where the accused traveled before and after the crime.
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to piece together all the evidence and determine the full scope of the conspiracy behind Raja Raghuvanshi's murder.
