I was killed: Missing Indore couple's family puts up poster, seeks CBI probe

Like many newlyweds, Raja and Sonam Raghuwanshi from Indore set out on their honeymoon with dreams of a joyful future. Tragically, their trip to Shillong became their final journey together.

A large, striking poster now displayed outside Raja’s Indore residence has drawn public attention and intensified calls for a high-level investigation. Featuring photos of the couple, the poster reads: “The soul of Raja appeals to the Central and State Governments – I didn’t die, I was killed. Let the CBI investigate.”

This message has added a chilling twist to what initially seemed like a tragic accident.

Raja and Sonam had travelled to Shillong on May 22. Just a day later, the couple went missing near Osara Hills, close to Cherrapunji.

Despite repeated efforts, their family was unable to contact them. Worried and desperate, some relatives travelled to Shillong to search for the couple. When their search proved fruitless, they returned to Indore and approached local authorities.

Soon after, police discovered the couple’s rented scooter abandoned under suspicious circumstances, heightening concerns for their safety. After eleven agonising days, police found Raja’s decomposed body in a deep gorge. His identity was confirmed by a tattoo bearing his name on his hand.

Suspicion deepened as Sonam remained missing. Refusing to believe it was an accident, the family alleged that the couple may have been abducted, robbed, and murdered. They are now demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe.

In a significant development, police confirmed that Raja was murdered during the couple’s honeymoon in Shillong. East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem revealed that Raja was killed with a sharp weapon commonly used to cut trees.

“The post-mortem report confirms that Raja Raghuwanshi died due to injuries inflicted by a ‘dao’ a traditional machete like weapon,” the SP said.

He further added, “We have recovered the victim’s mobile phone as well as the weapon used in the crime. This is clearly a case of murder there is no doubt about it.” A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to lead the probe.

Raja's brother, Vipin Raghuwanshi, told a news agency, “We are demanding a CBI investigation into the case. Raja’s body was found nearly 25 kilometers away from where their scooter was parked. We strongly suspect that he was kidnapped and taken to Wei Sawdong Falls.”

He further added, “It is not possible that my brother and his wife died by suicide. We believe this is a case of abduction, robbery and murder.”