A local court in Meghalaya on Saturday sent Sonam Raghuvanshi and her alleged lover Raj Kushwaha to 13-day judicial custody. They are the prime accused in the gruesome murder of Indore-based businessman Raja Raghuvanshi, which has shaken public confidence and drawn national attention.
The court ruling came after police produced the duo before the magistrate, citing the need for further judicial remand for continued investigation.
Businessman’s Murder Shocks Meghalaya, Madhya Pradesh
The murder of Raja Raghuvanshi, a 48-year-old businessman from Indore, was reported earlier this week in Shillong, Meghalaya. His body was recovered under suspicious circumstances, following an anonymous tip that alerted the local police to foul play.
Preliminary reports suggest he was lured to Meghalaya under false pretenses, possibly involving financial and personal motives. Also, police believe Sonam and Raj conspired together to carry out the murder.
Accused in Custody as Probe Deepens
According to officials from the Meghalaya Police, both Sonam and Raj were arrested after substantial evidence linked them to the murder scene. Investigators recovered surveillance footage, digital conversations, and call records that established close contact between the accused and the victim in the days leading up to the crime.
The police also seized personal belongings of the deceased from the premises where the couple was staying.
Love Affair, Betrayal, and Murder
Sources close to the investigation suggest that Sonam was married to Raja Raghuvanshi, but was allegedly involved in an affair with Raj Kushwaha. The love triangle is believed to be a major motive behind the killing.
Police officials said the murder appeared to be premeditated, with evidence suggesting that financial disputes and relationship tensions were at the core of the crime.
A senior officer said, “This is not a spur-of-the-moment crime. There are clear signs that the victim was targeted. We are examining all financial and personal links.”
Court Allows Police Time to Strengthen Case
The local magistrate accepted the police request to place the accused in judicial custody for 13 days, citing the gravity of the crime and ongoing investigation. The judge noted that custodial interrogation was complete and that further detention should now follow standard judicial procedure.
The court also directed authorities to ensure proper medical care and security for the accused during the custody period.
Public Reaction and Family’s Plea
The family of Raja Raghuvanshi has demanded fast-track proceedings and the strictest punishment for those involved. His brother, who flew from Indore to Shillong for legal proceedings, stated, “We want justice. Raja didn’t deserve such a cruel end.”
Social media platforms saw widespread outrage, with many users calling for better interstate coordination in criminal investigations.
Next Steps in the Case
The police are currently awaiting forensic reports from items recovered at the crime scene. Mobile phone data extraction and financial transaction analysis are also underway to trace the movement of funds between the accused.
The police have not ruled out the involvement of other accomplices, and said further arrests may follow.
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