Family of Raja Raghuvanshi welcomes Sonam Raghuvanshi’s surrender, urges strict punishment

The family of Raja Raghuvanshi has welcomed the surrender of prime accused Sonam Raghuvanshi and said it will continue to seek stringent punishment for all accused in the murder case. Raja’s brother, Bipin Raghuvanshi, who reached Shillong on Tuesday, said he came to appear before the court as part of the ongoing proceedings.

Surrender followed by a court appearance

Bipin said he was informed about Sonam’s surrender and also saw her during a video-conferencing proceeding from jail. He added that he was in Shillong because he had been given a court date to present himself. The family’s position, he said, is focused on ensuring that the case results in the strictest outcome under the law.

Speaking to reporters, Bipin said the family would be satisfied only when Sonam and the other accused receive the maximum punishment available. He further stated that, if possible, Sonam and the others should be given the death penalty. Bipin said the family can only find peace after justice is delivered.

Trial should be completed quickly

Bipin also urged that the trial be completed as early as possible. He said that Sonam has “gone to jail” for now and that she should remain in custody until the proceedings end. After the trial, he said he expects the court to impose life imprisonment on Sonam.

The brother additionally raised concerns about what he described as a lack of equal institutional response to complaints made by men and women. He alleged that complaints made by women are often acted on quickly, while complaints made by men—such as alleged harassment or abuse within relationships—are not heard with the same immediacy. He said the family is hopeful the legal process will ultimately ensure justice for Raja, following the Meghalaya government’s decision to pursue the matter after a High Court bail order.