SHILLONG, Nov 11: The brother of murdered Indore businessman Raja Raghuvanshi on Tuesday deposed before a court here as trial began in the sensational case involving the victim’s wife, her alleged boyfriend and his friends, accused of killing him at a secluded spot near Wei Sawdong in Sohra on May 23, officials said.
The proceedings commenced before the Court of the Additional Deputy Commissioner (Judicial), Shillong, with the examination of the complainant and brother of the deceased, Vipin Raghuvanshi.
Charges were formally framed against five accused — the victim’s wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi, and her alleged accomplices Raj Kushwaha, Vishal Singh Chauhan, Akash Singh Rajput and Anand Kurmi — all of whom pleaded not guilty.
Special Public Prosecutor KC Gautam described the case as being backed by strong evidence and a “watertight charge sheet,” adding that close to 90 witnesses are expected to be examined during the trial. “Only Vipin was called today. The examination was incomplete; it will take more time. The others, as their turn comes, will come,” he said.
Following the day’s proceedings, the complainant told reporters that his full statement could not be recorded due to time constraints and that the next hearing has been fixed for November 26.
The court framed charges on October 28 following a 790-page charge sheet filed by police.
East Khasi Hills SP Vivek Syiem said a second chargesheet is being prepared and is expected to be filed by the third week of November. (PTI)
