During the session, the court recorded Deepanshi’s statement, beginning with her identification of Sonam. She was questioned about Sonam’s conduct, his interactions within the family, and whether she had any acquaintance with the deceased. Court officials said her responses will help establish behavioural patterns and potential motives. Priyanshi’s testimony has been scheduled for the next hearing. After delivering her statement, both women left without speaking to the media.
Raja, who married Sonam on May 11, travelled with her to Shillong, Meghalaya, for their honeymoon on May 21. Two days later, both went missing. Ten days after their disappearance, police recovered Raja’s mutilated body from a 30-foot ravine, bearing deep wounds likely inflicted by sharp weapons. Sonam was untraceable until she surrendered in Uttar Pradesh days later.
Subsequent interrogation led to the arrests of Akash, Anand, and Vishal, bringing the number of accused to five. Investigators allege Sonam was involved in a romantic relationship with Raj Kushwaha, a claim her family has denied. Police say Sonam took Raja to a secluded location under the pretext of sightseeing, where the three accomplices followed and allegedly attacked Raja with two knives—one later recovered from the forested area.
All five accused, including Sonam and Raj, remain in judicial custody as the case continues to unfold. The next hearing is expected to focus on Priyanshi’s testimony and further corroboration of the prosecution’s narrative.
