Shillong, June 7 — As the search for missing Madhya Pradesh woman Sonam Raghuvanshi continues for over two weeks, Meghalaya’s lone BJP minister Alexander Laloo Hek has voiced support for the families’ demand for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the suspicious death of her husband, Raja Raghuvanshi.
Raja’s decomposed body was recovered on June 2 from a deep gorge below Weisawdong Parking Lot at Riat Arliang in the Sohra-Cherrapunji area of Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills district. The couple from Indore had gone missing on May 23 while on a honeymoon trip to the northeastern state.
Minister Hek stated that since the family has been pushing for a CBI probe, the central agency should be allowed to investigate the matter to ensure justice and help in tracing Sonam. He added that Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has not opposed the proposal.
A joint search operation involving Meghalaya Police, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), local villagers, and mountaineers is underway. Drones, sniffer dogs, and other equipment are being used in the difficult terrain.
The police have recovered a raincoat, bloodstained machete, and noted the absence of Raja’s valuables, including gold jewelry and his wallet, raising suspicions of foul play. His brother, Govind Raghuvanshi, has insisted that the circumstances point to murder and urged a CBI investigation.
The Meghalaya Police have formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT), led by a Superintendent of Police and supported by four Deputy Superintendents.
Sonam’s mobile has remained switched off since May 24. Top officials, including Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav and MPs, have discussed the case with Meghalaya authorities, as the mystery around the couple’s disappearance deepens.
