It was supposed to be a postcard-perfect summer in Sohra. The waterfalls gushed, the mists danced along the cliffs, and the people—ever gracious, ever grounded—welcomed visitors with open arms and hot cups of red tea.

But in late May, beneath the scenic calm, a story unfolded that would jolt the conscience of Meghalaya and trigger ripples through the nation. A new couple’s trip ended in tragedy when the body of 30-year-old Raja Raghuvanshi from Indore, was discovered at the base of a cliff near the iconic Weisawdong Falls. Days later, the unthinkable happened—his wife Sonam, a grieving widow just days earlier, was arrested for allegedly masterminding his murder.

In a matter of hours, national headlines screamed “Honeymoon Horror”; YouTubers dissected theories; social media trolls unleashed vitriol. And somewhere amid the noise, an entire state was painted with a brush dipped in suspicion and ignorance.

The timing of the tragedy couldn’t have been worse. After enduring the pandemic’s crushing blow to the tourism and hospitality sectors, Meghalaya’s tourism revival had become the talk of the region. From 10.2 lakh visitors in 2022, the number had surged to over 16 lakh in 2024. The state is poised to touch the 20-lakh mark in 2025, buoyed by signature events like the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival, which recently bagged the prestigious international award ‘WOW Awards’ for tourism, events and experiential excellence.

The buzz was palpable. Airline bookings soared. Homestays were full. Drone shots of lush forests and waterfalls trended every week. And then, in one chilling moment, the story shifted—from celebration to damage control. Tour operators, taxi drivers, café owners, and locals whose lives depend on tourists braced for a drop. There was panic. Then cancellations. And then silence. But that silence didn’t last.

A senior officer........

© hindustantimes