Meghalaya – State Challenges Sonam Raghuvanshi Bail in Supreme Court

Meghalaya –  Meghalaya murder case developments remain under judicial review as the state government has approached the Supreme Court against the bail granted to Sonam Raghuvanshi, who is accused in the 2025 death of her husband, Raja Raghuvanshi, during their honeymoon trip.

Supreme Court to Hear State’s Appeal

The Meghalaya government filed its challenge on Thursday, questioning the decision to grant bail to Sonam Raghuvanshi. A Supreme Court bench comprising Justices MM Sundresh and Sheel Nagu agreed to take up the matter on Friday after Solicitor General Tushar Mehta requested an urgent hearing.

The state has argued that the Meghalaya High Court should not have upheld the bail order in a case involving allegations of murder and criminal conspiracy. The hearing is expected to focus on whether the legal grounds cited for granting bail were sufficient in the circumstances of the case.

State Questions Basis of Bail Order

During the urgent mentioning before the court, Mehta submitted that the High Court had relied on an issue concerning the documents and reasons communicated to the accused at the time of her arrest.

According to the state’s submission, the concern arose from an incorrect statutory reference caused by a typographical mistake. Mehta told the court that the error should not have been treated as a basis for extending bail in the case.

He also raised concerns over the possibility that the accused could evade the legal process if the bail order remains in force. The Supreme Court will consider the state’s arguments when it hears the matter.

High Court Had Upheld Trial Court Decision

The Meghalaya High Court had upheld the bail granted by the trial court on June 29. The order followed proceedings in the case registered after the death of Raja Raghuvanshi, who had travelled to Meghalaya with his wife for their honeymoon.

The state’s petition before the Supreme Court seeks to overturn the High Court’s decision. The outcome of the hearing could determine whether Sonam Raghuvanshi continues on bail while the criminal case proceeds before the trial court.

Couple Went Missing During Honeymoon Trip

The investigation relates to the disappearance of Raja and Sonam Raghuvanshi in the Sohra region of Meghalaya. The couple was reported missing on May 23, 2025, while they were on their honeymoon in the state.

Search efforts continued for several days before Raja Raghuvanshi’s body was found in a deep gorge on June 2, 2025. The recovery led to a police investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

The case drew attention because the couple had travelled to a well-known tourist area shortly after their marriage. Investigators later examined their movements, communications and other evidence connected with the trip.

Police Allege Financial Motive and Conspiracy

Meghalaya Police have alleged that Sonam Raghuvanshi was involved in a plan to kill her husband and that hired attackers were used in the alleged crime. Investigators have said the suspected motive was financial gain.

These allegations remain subject to trial, and the accused is entitled to contest the prosecution’s case in court. The Supreme Court’s immediate consideration will be limited to the challenge against the bail order rather than a final assessment of guilt or innocence.

The matter is likely to be watched closely as the state presses for the bail decision to be reconsidered and the criminal proceedings continue.