Shillong: Meghalaya’s scenic tranquility has been shattered by a deeply disturbing incident, as the body of Indore tourist Raja Raghuvanshi was tragically recovered from a gorge near the picturesque Wei Sawdong Falls. The mystery deepens with his wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi, still unaccounted for, sparking widespread concern and a massive search operation.
Amidst the growing controversy and swirling rumours, Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh has appealed to the public to exercise restraint, urging against premature conclusions while the investigation is actively underway. Speaking to reporters, Minister Lyngdoh described the event as “unprecedented and shocking,” emphasising that the full narrative is yet to unfold.
The case has taken a grim turn with police declaring it a homicide and the subsequent recovery of what is suspected to be the murder weapon. This development has intensified the search efforts, with dedicated teams from the NDRF, SDRF, and local police now combing the treacherous terrain. The minister acknowledged the sensitivity of the situation, assuring that all necessary legal procedures are being followed and that the government fully backs the ongoing investigation.
Despite the shocking nature of the incident, Lyngdoh moved to reassure both the public and prospective tourists that Meghalaya remains a safe and hospitable destination. He stressed that this isolated tragedy should not be allowed to cast a shadow over the state’s otherwise welcoming image or incite doubts about the safety of its visitors.
Raja Raghuvanshi’s body was discovered through the meticulous deployment of drone surveillance technology by rescue teams. The couple had reportedly arrived in Mawlakhiat village, Elaka Mynteng, on May 22, riding a rented scooter, with plans to visit the famous Double Decker Root Bridge in Nongriat. Police reports indicate they trekked over 3,000 steps into the gorge, spending the night there.
The first sign of trouble emerged on May 24, when their scooter was found abandoned at a cafe along the Shillong-Sohra road. This discovery prompted an initial search involving local villagers. Family members subsequently filed a missing persons report, triggering a comprehensive search operation that commenced on May 28. The extensive mission involves three specialised teams, aided by K9 units, drones from the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC), and personnel from special operations teams, all working tirelessly to locate Sonam Raghuvanshi and unravel the full truth behind this tragic event.
Read More: Assam: Kaziranga Set for Massive Expansion, Boosting Conservation Efforts