Shillong, 29 April (HS): The family of Indore-based businessman Raja Raghuvanshi has decided to approach the Meghalaya High Court against the bail granted to his wife Sonam in the sensational murder case, while reiterating their demand for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe.

Raising strong objections to the court’s decision, Raja’s brother Vipin alleged that Sonam was the “mastermind” behind the killing and said the family would contest the bail order on legal grounds. He pointed out that during the hearing, the defence largely argued that the Meghalaya Police had failed to properly inform Sonam about the reasons for her arrest, which was projected as a violation of legal provisions.

The case dates back to May 23 last year, when Raja Raghuvanshi went missing during his honeymoon in Meghalaya. His body was recovered on June 2 from a gorge near a waterfall in Sohra under East Khasi Hills district, with investigators terming the incident a brutal murder.

Sonam was arrested on June 9, 2025, from Ghazipur in Uttar Pradesh and had remained in judicial custody in Shillong for more than ten months. Subsequently, police filed a detailed 790-page chargesheet naming eight accused, including Sonam and her alleged associate Raj Kushwaha, outlining what was described as a pre-planned conspiracy.

Despite the gravity of the allegations, a local court granted bail to Sonam earlier this week, triggering outrage within the victim’s family. Raja’s mother Uma expressed shock over the development, stating that the outcome was difficult to comprehend despite months of investigation by the police. She urged the government to ensure justice for her son.

Vipin also questioned the handling of the case, alleging possible procedural lapses and even “manipulation.” He further claimed that the prosecution had not provided the family with a copy of the chargesheet, restricting their ability to review the evidence.

The family continues to press for an independent CBI inquiry, asserting that the seriousness of the case demands a more thorough and impartial investigation as the matter now heads towards further legal scrutiny in the High Court.------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash