What began as a dream honeymoon in the scenic hills of Meghalaya ended in a gruesome murder that has shocked the nation. The tragic death of 29-year-old Raja Raghuvanshi has now been confirmed as a cold-blooded murder, orchestrated by his wife, Sonam, in alliance with her secret lover, identified as Raj Kushwaha—who posed as “Sanjay Verma.”
The young couple from Indore had tied the knot on May 11, 2025. Just a few days into their married life, they embarked on a honeymoon to the northeast. On May 22, they arrived at a homestay in Nongriat, Cherrapunji, known for its pristine waterfalls and remote beauty. But only Sonam would return from the trip alive.
Raja was reported missing on May 24. Ten days later, his decomposing body was discovered in a gorge below Wei-Sawdong Falls. What initially appeared to be a tragic accident soon unraveled into a chilling tale of deceit, betrayal, and murder.
According to Meghalaya Police, Sonam had been in regular contact with a man she referred to as “Sanjay Verma.” Phone records later revealed that Sanjay was actually Raj Kushwaha, a 24-year-old employee of her brother’s business and her lover. Investigators disclosed that Sonam and Raj had been in an intimate relationship for months, continuing even after her marriage to Raja was finalized.
The plot began to thicken when the police found Raja’s luggage abandoned at the homestay. Inside were valuables, Sonam’s mangalsutra, and Raja’s wallet—casting doubt on the theory of an accidental fall or robbery.
Further leads came from a local guide, Albert Padi, who confirmed seeing the couple with three Hindi-speaking men on May 23. These men, believed to be contract killers hired by Raj and Sonam, joined the couple on their trek under the pretense of fellow tourists.
The motive? Investigators believe it was twofold—romantic and financial. Raj, driven by his obsession for Sonam and a desire to eliminate the “obstacle” in their relationship, worked with her to devise a plan to kill Raja during their honeymoon. Raj even traveled to Meghalaya to coordinate with the three alleged killers: Vishal Chauhan, Akash Rajput, and Anand Patel—all now in police custody.
Forensics recovered a blood-stained weapon near the site, linking the murder directly to human intervention. Additionally, CCTV footage from a petrol station days before Raja’s death showed the couple in a seemingly normal interaction, Sonam wearing the same shirt found near the crime scene.
Police finally arrested Sonam on June 9 from a dhaba in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh. Before surrendering, she recorded a video message claiming innocence and saying she feared for her life. Her family maintains she is being framed and has demanded a CBI investigation.
However, police insist the evidence is overwhelming. “We have confessions, call data, financial trails, and corroborating witness statements,” said ACP Poonam Chand Yadav. “This was not spontaneous. It was a well-orchestrated murder.”
The case has sparked national debate on arranged marriages, toxic relationships, and how easily people can lead double lives in the digital age. The Meghalaya Police, now aided by an SIT, is preparing for trial while transferring the accused to Shillong for judicial custody.
As the nation watches, the tragic story of a young man’s honeymoon turning into a nightmare serves as a grim reminder: behind perfect photos, hidden truths can be fatal.