Editor,
The tragedies in Pahalgam and Sohra may seem very different in cause and scale of violence. Yet there are striking parallels. Besides, even one murder is one too many.
The first parallel lies in the incredible pre-capitalist hospitality offered to tourist visitors from outside these states — the greatest proof that the guest is still God in India. I heard the anguish of local hoteliers and tour guides in Pahalgam, with one Muslim man saying he would rather give up his own life than have his guest harmed. Although Muslims, with those executed, Hindus, they mourned the dead as fellow human beings. The same might be said of Meghalaya and its incredible hospitality towards mainland tourists. This kind of love for strangers is fabled and unheard of these days.
The second parallel lies in the response of Mainland Indians to the two states. After the Pahalgam tragedy, a host of anti-Muslim hate incidents (both online and in reality) were reported, despite the fact that one Muslim tour guide in Pahalgam lost his life trying to save Hindu tourists. After Raja Raghuvanshi and his newly wed wife,
Sonam Raghuvanshi disappeared (four days into their trip, which started on May 20, 2025), no effort was spared in Meghalaya to find the lost couple. As the BBC reports, “Police and disaster relief teams, accompanied by local people, searched for the couple. Videos from the area showed rescuers rappelling down hills and cliffs in valleys covered in mist. Officials said rain and low visibility were hampering the search operations.” A week later, Raja Raghuvanshi’s murdered body was found in a gruesome state. As in the case of Pahalagam, mainland Indians (family members on both sides) not only showed no gratitude, but blamed Meghalaya police in the state. As BBC reports: “Their families mounted a huge campaign, accusing the Meghalaya police of not doing enough to solve Raja’s murder or find Sonam – an accusation contested by the state’s chief minister. The couple’s families demanded that the case be handed over to the federal police for a proper investigation and met influential caste leaders and federal ministers in their home state to lobby for this. Last Friday, they also wrote a letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to deliver justice for Raja and find Sonam.” To add insult to injury, Times of India characterized Meghalaya as “crime-prone hills.” Sonam and three others have now been arrested, with a fourth man now arrested in Meghalaya. It is commendable that Raja’s brother has now apologized to the Meghalaya state police, and expressed gratitude.
But the larger implications of these two tragedies lies in how mainland Hindus lack a sense of inclusivity in their vision of India — as evinced by how they “other” those different from themselves (whether the Pahalgam Muslim or the people of Meghalaya). This betrays every tenet of the highest Vedantic Hinduism, which sees the Divine in every being (not just human beings). India is a marvel of harmony amidst diversity. But how can it hang together if an ugly majoritarianism raises its head? Majoritarianism should be generous in its inclusion of minorities.
Yours, etc.,
Deepa Majumdar,
Via email
When Hek & Mukul let our state down; when the CM did not bow down to pressure
Editor.
In an attempt to paint the Meghalaya government in a bad light, and what can be termed a display of having no faith in their own police force, Meghalaya cabinet minister A.L. Hek backed the demand for a CBI probe into the Raja Raghuvanshi case days before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the East Khasi Hills police unravelled the dark mystery behind the brutal murder of the young newlywed from Indore. Similarly, Leader of the Opposition Mukul M. Sangma went on record saying that “political interference” would undermine “police efficiency.” But when the SIT brought the facts on record, both Hek and Mukul were quick to laud the police force.
It was unbecoming of the two senior politicians of our state to jump the gun without knowing the complete facts of the case. Unlike Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, who maintained his composure from the beginning until the SIT unravelled the case, Hek and Mukul displayed immaturity despite being senior legislators. While Mukul is the senior-most legislator in the current Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, having been elected since 1993, Hek is the second, having won his first election in 1998. Besides, both have been at the helm of the administration for a long time, and it was unbecoming of them to issue immature statements. We applaud the Chief Minister for not bowing to pressure and for maintaining his faith in the state police.
A few days after May 24, when the case was first reported, the two leaders were aware that the image of our state and its people had been tarnished through media reportage and public comments by the general public, especially by the families of the newlywed couple. The least Mukul and Hek could have done was to lend support to the state, as ordinary citizens have been doing since day one. They could have avoided making unnecessary statements that could have demoralised the police force and the public. Unfortunately, in their attempt to score political points, they failed in their duty as legislators. Perhaps they could pick up some maturity tips from the common man who has risen above political differences to stand shoulder to shoulder with the state.
It is during such critical moments that all leaders and citizens should set aside their political differences and support the greater cause. But then, some politicians will remain politicians, indulging in petty political games to serve their vested interests. While constructive criticism should be welcomed, we also need to call out blatant displays of political immaturity when we encounter them. We hope that the people have been able to read the intentions of such so-called leaders.
To the people of our state, a heartfelt thank you for standing shoulder to shoulder when Meghalaya was slandered through irresponsible reporting by sections of the national media and the immature statements made by many. Unity is our strength; division is our downfall.
To the people of Sohra – your resilience in the face of unwarranted and unprecedented slander has truly won our hearts. Equally moving was the candlelight vigil held on June 10 at Saitsohpen in honour of Raja Raghuvanshi, an innocent soul who was mercilessly taken from us. May justice be done, and may his soul rest in peace.
Yours etc.,
Sanbor Wahlang,
Via email
Water tight case
Editor,
Apropos of the news “SIT promises watertight case against Sonam, other accused” (ST June 10, 2025) what exactly is a watertight case? It is a legal case that is so strong and well supported by evidence that it leaves no room for doubt or loopholes. It typically includes clear and compelling evidence like physical proof, witness testimonies and forensic reports that strongly support the prosecution’s claims. The case is built on solid legal grounds, making it difficult for the defence to challenge. The prosecution ensures that there are no inconsistencies that could be exploited by the defence. Given the strength of the case, the accused is likely to be found guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
A watertight case in court has several key implications: (1) If the prosecution presents strong, indisputable evidence – such as confessions, forensic reports and digital communication, it significantly increases the likelihood of a guilty verdict. (2) The accused and their legal team will struggle to find loopholes or inconsistencies to challenge the case. This reduces the chances of acquittal or a lighter sentence. (3) A well-prepared case with clear evidence can lead to quicker court proceedings, minimizing delays caused by weak arguments or insufficient proof. (4) In high-profile cases like the Meghalaya honeymoon murder, a watertight case ensures that justice is seen as being served, reinforcing trust in law enforcement and the judiciary. (5) If the case is handled effectively, it can set a legal precedent for similar crimes, influencing future investigations and judicial decisions.
In the Honeymoon murder case, it is heartening that the Special Investigation Team promises to build a watertight case against the accused and her accomplices by gathering strong evidence, including her confession, digital communication and forensic reports.
Yours etc;
VK Lyngdoh,
Via email