Shillong: Sonam Raghuvanshi, the prime accused in the chilling murder of her husband, Indore-based businessman Raja Raghuvanshi, has filed a formal bail application, citing “serious inconsistencies” in the police charge sheet submitted last week.
The case, which stunned the nation earlier this year, involved the alleged contract killing of Raja during what was supposed to be the couple’s honeymoon in Meghalaya. Raja was found murdered near Weisawdong Falls in the Sohra region, while Sonam, his newlywed wife, later surrendered to police in Uttar Pradesh.
Bail Plea Filed, Hearing Scheduled
On Friday, Sonam’s legal team submitted the bail petition before the Judicial Magistrate First Class of Sohra Sub-Division. The court has listed the matter for hearing on September 17.
Additional Public Prosecutor Tushar Chandra confirmed that the petition had been filed, adding that the prosecution has requested additional time to review the case file and respond appropriately.
Sonam’s counsel argues that the 790-page charge sheet, submitted by the Meghalaya Police last week, contains “procedural lapses and contradictions” that warrant bail. While specific flaws have not yet been disclosed publicly, the defense is expected to outline them during the upcoming hearing.
Background of the Case
The murder occurred in May 2025, just days after Raja and Sonam arrived in Meghalaya. The couple was reported missing under suspicious circumstances, prompting a large-scale search by police across state lines.
Soon after, Raja’s lifeless body was discovered in a remote parking area, and evidence quickly pointed toward a premeditated murder. According to the police investigation, Sonam allegedly orchestrated the crime with the help of her boyfriend, Raj Kushwaha, and three hired assassins.
All five accused—Sonam, Raj, Vishal Singh Chauhan, Akash Rajput, and Anand Kurmi—were arrested in separate operations spanning multiple states.
The prosecution claims that the motive behind the murder stemmed from an extramarital affair and a plan to eliminate Raja for personal and financial gain.
