Supreme Court Cancels Sonam’s Bail, Orders Immediate Surrender
Top court allows Meghalaya government's plea against bail, says accused may seek fresh relief if trial is not completed within six months.
New Delhi, July 24: The Supreme Court on Thursday cancelled the bail granted to Sonam Raghuvanshi, the prime accused in the alleged murder of her husband, Raja Raghuvanshi, during their honeymoon in Meghalaya last year. The apex court directed her to surrender before the authorities within three weeks while allowing the Meghalaya Government’s appeal challenging the earlier bail order.
A Bench comprising Justice M.M. Sundresh and Justice P.B. Varale held that the bail granted to the accused should be set aside, observing that the trial in the case should proceed expeditiously. However, the court clarified that if the trial does not begin and conclude within six months, Sonam will be free to approach the court again by filing a fresh bail application.
The ruling came after the Meghalaya Government argued that the seriousness of the allegations and the nature of the evidence warranted cancellation of the bail. The state sought intervention from the Supreme Court, contending that the accused should remain in custody until the trial progresses.
The case relates to the death of Raja Raghuvanshi, a businessman from Indore, Madhya Pradesh, who had travelled to Meghalaya with his wife for their honeymoon in May 2025. The couple was reported missing on May 23 while visiting the scenic Sohra region, formerly known as Cherrapunji.
After an extensive search operation, Raja’s body was recovered from a deep gorge on June 2, 2025, triggering a high-profile criminal investigation. Police later arrested Sonam Raghuvanshi in June 2025, alleging that she had orchestrated the murder with the help of hired assailants.
According to investigators, the alleged conspiracy was motivated by financial gains. The prosecution has maintained that Sonam planned the killing in advance and worked with contract killers to execute the crime during the couple’s vacation.
The case attracted nationwide attention due to the shocking nature of the allegations and the circumstances surrounding the honeymoon trip. Investigating agencies have since filed charges based on evidence collected during the probe, including statements and forensic material.
With the Supreme Court’s latest order, Sonam Raghuvanshi is now required to surrender before the police within the stipulated three-week period. The trial court is expected to continue proceedings in the matter, while the apex court has emphasised the need for a timely conclusion of the case.
Legal experts noted that the Supreme Court’s direction balances the interests of justice by ensuring the accused returns to custody while also safeguarding her right to seek bail again if the trial is unduly delayed. The proceedings will now move forward before the competent trial court in accordance with law.
