Sonam and four other people were arrested for plotting Raja’s murder while on their honeymoon in Meghalaya, which led to the demand.
If the apology isn’t given, Hek threatened to file a slander lawsuit.
Meghalaya Murder Case: Swift Action, Civil Society Reactions, and Shocking Details Emerge
In a tragic turn of events that has stunned the nation, a chilling murder case from Meghalaya has taken a political and social twist. The police investigation, public outrage, and civil society’s strong words have all come together to form a storm of headlines.
Swift Police Action Lauded by Leaders
Health Minister A.L. Hek praised the Meghalaya Police for their swift crackdown and efficient investigation, completed within just seven days. “We are thankful to the Meghalaya Police for their crackdown and complete investigation within seven days,” Hek stated.
Civil Society Demands Apology from Victim’s Family
The Confederation of Meghalaya Social Organizations (CoMSO), a Shillong-based civil group, came out strongly against the family of Sonam, the prime accused in the case.
CoMSO Chairman Roy Kupar Synrem accused Sonam’s family of politicizing a personal tragedy and misusing media attention. He further demanded a public apology from the family, stating they should apologize to:
The Government of Meghalaya
The Meghalaya Police
The local community of Sohra
Every citizen whose reputation was unfairly maligned
He said the family made “calculated efforts to politicize a personal tragedy, exploit media channels, and generate anti-Meghalaya sentiments nationwide.”
Synrem also took this opportunity to renew CoMSO’s longstanding demand for implementing the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system in Meghalaya. According to him, ILP is essential to regulate the inflow of tourists and migrants into the state.
Case Timeline: From Disappearance to Arrest
The case began on May 23, when the couple — Sonam and her husband Raja — were reported missing. On June 2, Raja’s body was discovered in a deep gorge in the Sohra region of Meghalaya.
On Sunday night, Sonam surrendered to the police in Uttar Pradesh’s Ghazipur, while the Meghalaya Police arrested other key accused.
A three-day transit remand was granted for Sonam, and she is now being taken to Shillong for further questioning. The other four accused, including her alleged lover Raj Kushwaha, have also been sent on a seven-day transit remand.
The Shocking Motive: A Cold-Blooded Conspiracy
According to police sources, Sonam conspired with her lover, Raj Kushwaha, to eliminate her husband.
An Indore police officer revealed that Kushwaha was in contact with hired killers for several weeks, and made arrangements by giving them ₹50,000 and a mobile phone. These killers reportedly left Indore for Meghalaya on May 17.
On the day of the murder, Sonam lured Raja to a secluded hilly area under the pretext of a photo shoot. As the couple reached a deserted spot, three men followed closely behind.
Then came the most chilling detail: Sonam allegedly shouted, “Kill him,” prompting the attackers to strike.