In an extraordinary tale of deceit and betrayal, Indian police have solved the mysterious murder of Indore businessman Raja Raghuvanshi, uncovering that his newlywed wife planned his death during their honeymoon in Meghalaya with the help of her lover—who pretended to be someone named “Sanjay Verma.” The killer, however, was no stranger, but her secret partner Raj Kushwaha.
The Disappearance
On May 22, Raja and Sonam arrived in Cherrapunji’s Nongriat village, known for its scenic treks. By May 24, Raja had vanished. It wasn’t until June 2 that a decomposing body was found at the bottom of Wei-Sawdong Falls. Initial assumptions were that it was a tragic accident. But as police began combing through their travel records, doubts grew.
Unmasking Sanjay Verma
Sonam had returned home and tried to live quietly in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh. But police inquiries soon led them to her phone records. One number popped up consistently—“Sanjay Verma,” with whom she had been speaking for hours every night leading up to the honeymoon.
A deeper probe revealed that “Sanjay” was a fake identity used by Raj Kushwaha, Sonam’s former lover. Authorities say they plotted the murder for months, choosing the honeymoon as the perfect opportunity, where geography and isolation would help cover up the crime.
The Murder Plan
On May 23, Sonam and Raja were joined by three other Hindi-speaking men during a trek. One of them, police allege, struck Raja with a weapon. Raja was then pushed into the gorge while Sonam stood by, pretending it was an accident.
Locals reported seeing the group together. Raja’s personal belongings were found untouched. A CCTV recording confirmed Sonam wore the same outfit later found at the crime scene. A dao (machete-like weapon) with blood was discovered nearby.
Arrests and Interrogations
By early June, the net began to close. Sonam was found hiding in Uttar Pradesh. Kushwaha was arrested shortly after in Indore. The three contract killers—Vishal, Akash, and Anand—were also caught. Under questioning, they confessed to the plan, admitting that Kushwaha paid them and Sonam provided logistical support.
Motives
Investigators cite a combination of passion and financial motives. Raj reportedly believed he and Sonam could inherit Raja’s assets and begin a life together. Sonam, for her part, seemed caught between her new marriage and an old romance she never truly left behind.
Wider Impact
The case has sparked national interest. News outlets and psychologists have pointed to the increasing frequency of premeditated spousal murders, especially involving tech-facilitated secret affairs. It has also prompted a call for stricter background checks and greater awareness about post-marital safety in India.
Justice Awaits
With all five suspects in custody, and a strong chain of forensic and digital evidence, Meghalaya Police say they are confident of securing convictions. “The truth was hidden in plain sight,” said one senior officer. “We just had to connect the calls, the footprints, and the betrayal.”
As the court proceedings approach, the entire country watches, asking: How did a romantic honeymoon become the setting for one of India’s most cold-blooded murders?