Bail for Meghalaya Honeymoon Murder Accused Sparks Outrage, Family Seeks CBI Probe

The case dates back to 23rd May, 2025, when Raja Raghuvanshi went missing during his honeymoon in Cherrapunjee in East Khasi Hills

Digital Desk: The family of Indore-based businessman Late Raja Raghuvanshi has strongly objected to a Meghalaya court’s decision to grant bail to his wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi, alleging that she was the “mastermind” behind the murder. . The family has also demanded a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

A court in Shillong granted bail to Sonam on 28^th April, citing the failure of the Meghalaya Police to properly communicate the grounds of her arrest, a procedural lapse under the law. Additional Deputy Commissioner (Judicial) Dashalene R. Kharbteng granted bail on a bond of Rs50,000 with a surety of the same amount. The court, however, directed Sonam to remain in Shillong and appear during all hearings.

Reacting to the development, the victim’s brother Vipin Raghuvanshi said the family would challenge the order in the Meghalaya High Court. He stated that during the bail hearing, Sonam’s lawyer primarily argued that legal provisions were violated as she was not informed of the specific reasons for her arrest.

The case dates back to 23rd May, 2025, when Raja Raghuvanshi went missing during his honeymoon in Sohra (Cherrapunjee) in East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. His body was recovered on 2^nd June from a gorge near a waterfall, in what investigators described as acold-hearted  Murder.

Sonam Raghuvanshi was arrested on  9^th June , 2025, from Ghazipur in Uttar Pradesh and had remained in judicial custody in Shillong for over ten months. Police later filed a 790-page chargesheet naming eight accused, including Sonam and her alleged boyfriend Raj Kushwah, outlining an alleged conspiracy to murder Raja.

Despite the charges, the court’s decision to grant bail has triggered strong reactions from the victim’s family. Raja’s mother, Uma Raghuvanshi, expressed disbelief, stating that despite months of investigation, the outcome was difficult to comprehend. She appealed to the government for justice for her son.

Vipin Raghuvanshi also raised concerns over possible procedural lapses and alleged “manipulation” in the handling of the case. He claimed that the family has not been provided with a copy of the chargesheet, limiting their ability to examine the evidence.

Following the bail order, the family has announced plans to move a higher court seeking its cancellation, while continuing to press for an independent investigation by the CBI.