Sonam Raghuvanshi, the accused in the Indore honeymoon murder, is scheduled to arrive in Guwahati today for a seven-day transit detention stay in Meghalaya.

Sonam Raghuvanshi, a 24-year-old woman from Indore, has been arrested for allegedly orchestrating the murder of her husband, Raja Raghuvanshi, during their honeymoon in Meghalaya. The crime, reportedly planned with her lover Raj Kushwah and executed with the help of hired accomplices, came to light after Raja’s body was discovered in a gorge near the Weisawdong waterfalls on June 2. Sonam, who had gone missing after the incident, was apprehended in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, and is being transported to Shillong for further investigation. Police have arrested five people in connection with the case, uncovering digital payment trails and evidence suggesting a premeditated plot. The case has shocked both the families and the local community, as the investigation continues across multiple states.

Civil society in Meghalaya requests that Sonam’s family apologise for the state’s defamatory remarks.

The Confederation of Meghalaya Social Organisations (CoMSO) has demanded a public apology from the family of Sonam Raghuvanshi, arrested for the alleged murder of her husband during their honeymoon in Sohra, for allegedly defaming Meghalaya and harming its reputation as a safe tourist destination. CoMSO claims Sonam’s family politicized the tragedy and spread misleading narratives against the state, while praising the local police for their professional investigation. The incident has also revived calls for implementing the Inner Line Permit (ILP) to better manage tourist inflow and enhance security. Meanwhile, Sonam’s family maintains her innocence and has called for a CBI probe, alleging bias in the investigation. The case has sparked renewed debate over tourism, public safety, and regulatory measures in Meghalaya.

Manipur erupts in Protesters battled with police over the detention of a leader and set fire to a government facility.

Manipur remains on edge as widespread protests erupted overnight following the arrest of Arambai Tenggol leader Kanan Singh and four others. Defying prohibitory orders, demonstrators set fire to the Sub-Divisional Collector’s office in Yairipok Tulihal, blocked major roads, and clashed violently with security forces in several Imphal localities. Police responded with tear gas and rubber bullets as tension escalated, while women’s groups joined torchlight processions demanding the immediate formation of a state government. The unrest, triggered by the CBI’s arrest of Singh at Imphal Airport for alleged involvement in the 2023 ethnic violence, has led to curfews, internet shutdowns, and a 10-day bandh, crippling normal life across the region.

A guide said that a missing Indore couple was last spotted with three males in Meghalaya.

A local tourist guide in Meghalaya has given a crucial statement in the investigation into the disappearance of Indore honeymooners Raja Raghuvanshi and his wife Sonam. The guide reported seeing the couple with three unidentified men on May 23 while trekking the steep Nongriat to Mawlakhiat trail in Sohra (Cherrapunjee). Raja’s body was later found in a deep gorge on June 2, while the search for Sonam continues amid challenging weather and terrain. Sonam’s family has criticized the Meghalaya government’s efforts and is calling for a CBI probe, a request supported by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav. Authorities, meanwhile, assure that all possible resources and technology are being used in the ongoing search.

Kamakhya Temple in Assam gets ready for the Ambubachi Mela, which starts on June 22.

The Assam government is making extensive preparations to welcome lakhs of devotees to the revered Kamakhya Temple for the Ambubachi Mela, scheduled from June 22 to 26, 2025. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that 24 departments are coordinating efforts to ensure a smooth and secure experience during one of the state’s most significant spiritual gatherings. The temple doors will close on June 22 to mark the annual menstrual cycle of Goddess Kamakhya, a sacred observance celebrating feminine energy and fertility. Accommodation for around 20,000 devotees, robust medical facilities, enhanced ferry services, and strict crowd control measures—including a ban on VIP visits—are being put in place. Recognized as one of Northeast India’s largest religious congregations, the Ambubachi Mela draws devotees, tourists, and spiritual seekers from across the country, with the entire temple complex becoming a focal point of devotion and ritual during this period.

Imphal violence following the purported arrest of Arambai Tenggol commander; internet outage, multiple injuries

Tensions escalated in Imphal, Manipur, late on June 8 following reports that a key leader of the Meitei outfit Arambai Tenggol had been apprehended by security forces. The incident sparked widespread protests across the city, with demonstrators blocking roads, clashing with security forces, and some reportedly attempting self-immolation. Several people sustained injuries during the unrest, which led authorities to suspend internet and mobile data services—including VSAT and VPN—in five valley districts to curb the spread of misinformation. Prohibitory orders and curfews were imposed in affected areas, and security was heightened, particularly around sensitive locations. Protesters demanded the immediate release of the arrested leader, bringing parts of Imphal to a standstill and causing severe traffic disruptions.

The flood situation in Arunachal improves, but Itanagar faces a drinking water problem.

Arunachal Pradesh’s flood situation showed signs of improvement as water levels in most rivers receded on June 7. Despite this, around 33,000 people across 24 districts remain affected, with many areas in Itanagar facing a drinking water crisis. Since the onset of the monsoon, twelve people have lost their lives and one person is missing due to rain-related incidents, including landslides. According to the State Emergency Operation Centre, 33,200 people in 215 villages are still impacted, with significant damage reported to houses, livestock, roads, bridges, and essential infrastructure. Changlang district is the worst hit, with six villages inundated and over 2,200 people homeless. Relief and rescue operations continue, supported by the NDRF, State Disaster Response Force, police, and local volunteers.