Shillong: National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have stepped up search operations in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills district as the hunt for missing tourist Sonam Raghuvanshi enters its third week. The search effort, which began after Sonam’s husband Raja Raghuvanshi’s body was discovered in a gorge, has been hampered by challenging weather conditions.
A specialised NDRF team has joined the multi-agency operation, working alongside State Disaster Response Force personnel, Special Operations Teams, and Meghalaya Police. The search has become increasingly urgent, with evidence suggesting that Raja’s murder may be linked to a local dispute that turned deadly.
The police have recovered a bloodstained weapon and personal belongings scattered at the Nongriat village area. Sonam’s brother Govind has made emotional appeals for accelerated search efforts, saying, “We believe Sonam is alive. We want the government and chief minister to expedite the search.”
The tragedy has sparked widespread concern, with women’s organisations across the state demanding immediate action and comprehensive searches. The case has also raised questions about tourist safety in one of Northeast India’s premier destinations.
The NDRF-led operation is facing mounting challenges from natural elements and the ticking clock as rescuers push deeper into Meghalaya’s unforgiving landscape in their race against time to find Sonam Raghuvanshi.
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