Marriage, Disappearance, Death: Inside Indore Couple’s Chilling Meghalaya Trip

Shillong, June 8, 2025 — A honeymoon turned horror has gripped the nation as the mystery deepens around the tragic case of Raja Raghuvanshi (29) and his wife Sonam Raghuvanshi (27) from Indore. The couple, who went missing during their honeymoon in Meghalaya, have become the focus of a nationwide search and investigation.

Timeline of Events

• May 23, 2025: Raja and Sonam checked out from their homestay in Nongriat village, Sohra (Cherrapunjee). CCTV footage captured them leaving the hotel, marking their last known appearance .

• June 2, 2025: Raja's body was discovered in a gorge approximately 20 km from their last known location. His valuables were missing, raising suspicions about the circumstances of his death .

• June 8, 2025: A newly surfaced 14-minute CCTV footage shows the couple arriving at a hotel in raincoats, storing their luggage, and heading towards the Double Decker Bridge on a two-wheeler that was later found abandoned. Sonam was seen wearing a black-and-pink raincoat, though similar apparel recovered near Raja’s body has not been confirmed as hers .

Investigation and Search Efforts

• Search Operations: The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and Meghalaya government have intensified search efforts using drones and special teams to locate Sonam .

• Family's Concerns: Sonam’s family remains hopeful, citing the absence of personal items like her phone or bag as evidence that she may have been kidnapped. They are urging the continued search until she is found .

• Audio Evidence: An emotional audio recording surfaced, capturing Raja's last conversation with his mother. In the call, Raja spoke affectionately, mentioning a waterfall, and his mother offered him care and advice. This recording has added a personal and emotional layer to the case, highlighting the family's grief and the tragic circumstances .

Political and Legal Developments

• Call for CBI Probe: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has formally requested Union Home Minister Amit Shah to initiate a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the case. The Chief Minister's involvement underscores the seriousness of the case and the state's commitment to ensuring justice .

Key Details

Analysis and Implications

The case has raised several questions:

• Circumstances of Raja's Death: The absence of valuables and the location of his body suggest foul play. Investigators are exploring all possibilities, including robbery, abduction, or other criminal activities.

• Sonam's Disappearance: The lack of personal belongings and the emotional audio recording have led to theories of abduction. The family's belief in Sonam's survival and their plea for continued search efforts highlight the uncertainty and hope that persists.

• Political Involvement: The call for a CBI probe indicates the seriousness with which the case is being treated at the state and national levels. It also reflects the family's influence and the public's demand for justice.

The disappearance and death of Raja Raghuvanshi and the ongoing search for Sonam Raghuvanshi have captivated the nation. The case continues to unfold, with authorities working tirelessly to uncover the truth. The family's resilience and the public's support underscore the collective hope for a resolution.