Meghalaya honeymoon murder: 790-page chargesheet filed against 8 accused
What's the story
The East Khasi Hills police in Meghalaya have filed a 790-page chargesheet in the murder case of Indore businessman Raja Raghuvanshi. The chargesheet alleges that Raja was murdered on his honeymoon by three hitmen hired by his wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi, and Raj Kushwaha, who was in a relationship with her. The document details the conspiracy and execution of the crime, which took place in front of Sonam.
Case evolution
Case started as missing persons report
The case first started as a missing persons report on May 23 when the couple went missing during their honeymoon. However, it turned into a murder investigation after Raja's body was found with two sharp cuts on his head. The body was recovered from a gorge below Wei Sawdong falls in Sohra.
Arrests made
Police arrested 5 people from UP, MP
Meghalaya Police arrested five people, including Sonam and Raj, from Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh on June 8 and June 9. The arrests were made after extensive search operations were launched following the couple's disappearance. The police also arrested three more accused: Lokendra Tomar, Balla Ahirwar, and Shilom James, for allegedly destroying evidence related to the case.
Evidence gathered
Evidence collected in the case
The police have collected substantial evidence in the case, including the recovered murder weapon, bloody clothes, and CCTV footage of the couple. Sonam's mangalsutra and a toe ring were also recovered from their hotel. The chargesheet has been filed under Sections 103(1), 238(a), and 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and Indian Justice Code, 2023.
Legal proceedings
Legal team for accused yet to receive notice
East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem confirmed that a 790-page chargesheet has been filed in court with substantial material evidence. However, the legal team for the accused is yet to receive any notice regarding the filing of this chargesheet. A senior member of their defense team said they cannot comment on allegations until they are formally notified.