Shillong: The brother of a murdered tourist has made an emotional appeal to the authorities to accelerate the search for his missing sister, Sonam Raghuvanshi, amid adverse weather conditions in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills district. Sonam’s husband, Raja Raghuvanshi, was found dead in a gorge, and the family believes she is still alive.
“We are anxious due to the slow progress of the search operation,” said Govind, Sonam’s brother. “We urge the government and the Chief Minister to expedite the search.”
The search efforts have been hindered by torrential rainfall and poor visibility, bringing operations to a standstill in the Sohra area. Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem confirmed the challenging conditions, stating that extreme weather had made it difficult for rescuers to move.
The couple from Indore, Madhya Pradesh, went missing on May 23 while trekking to the living root bridges in Nongriat village. Multiple agencies, including the National Disaster Response Force and State Disaster Response Force, are coordinating the search efforts.
The investigation has uncovered disturbing evidence, including a bloodstained weapon believed to have been used in Raja’s murder. The family has demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation probe into the incident and awaits Sonam’s discovery and the autopsy report.
The tragedy has sparked widespread condemnation, with the Mothers’ Union and Civil Society Women Organisation expressing condolences and urging immediate action. Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has promised comprehensive action and assured the family that his government will leave no stone unturned to bring the perpetrators to justice.