Inside the Honeymoon Murder: How a Romantic Escape Turned into a Cold-Blooded Conspiracy

A Paradise Destination, A Sinister Plan

Raja Raghuvanshi and Sonam Raghuvanshi had been married for just a few weeks when they set out for Meghalaya—a dream honeymoon destination. But behind the façade of romance was a deadly conspiracy that stunned even veteran investigators.

The couple arrived in Shillong on May 20, 2025, and headed to Cherrapunji, checking into a peaceful homestay in Nongriat on May 22. But by May 23, both had disappeared without a trace.

From Missing to Murder

It wasn’t until June 2 that the truth began to emerge. Raja’s body was discovered in a gorge below the picturesque Wei Sawdong Falls. It wasn’t a fall, it was murder. His injuries, the presence of a bloodied weapon nearby, and missing personal items confirmed that this was not an accident.

At the time, Sonam was still missing—until a dramatic arrest from a roadside dhaba in Ghazipur on June 9 turned the case on its head.

An Affair, a Murder, and a Hired Gang

Sonam’s arrest led to explosive revelations. Police uncovered that she was in regular contact with her former employee, Raj Kushwaha, a 21-year-old who is now being called the prime conspirator alongside her. Their relationship allegedly turned romantic after she hired him as a part-time helper in Indore.

According to police sources, Raj Kushwaha coordinated with hired killers in Meghalaya. The group allegedly stalked the couple and used the secluded jungle terrain to commit the crime. With Sonam’s cooperation, they murdered Raja and threw his body into the gorge.

Digital Trails and Arrests

The investigation made use of modern technology. Call records between Sonam and Raj were recovered. CCTV from multiple locations confirmed movement patterns inconsistent with a happy honeymooning couple.

Sonam’s sudden disappearance made authorities suspicious. Her family insists she is innocent and has been wrongly implicated. But the evidence tells a more chilling story.

Family Demands Justice

Raja’s family has been vocal in their demand for justice. “We were never convinced about Sonam,” said Raja’s brother in media statements. “She isolated him and controlled every aspect of his life. We want a CBI probe into what really happened.”

Police continue to search for one more suspect still on the run. Meghalaya’s CM Conrad Sangma has promised full support to the investigation.

Final Thoughts

This case has captivated national attention not just because of the gruesome nature of the crime but because it flips a societal symbol—marriage—on its head. A honeymoon, usually a celebration of love, became the backdrop for betrayal and murder.

The Meghalaya honeymoon murder isn't just a story about crime—it's a disturbing reflection of trust broken, love manipulated, and how quickly human nature can turn fatal when greed and jealousy take over.