Shillong, June 3: Meghalaya Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh has described the tragic incident involving a missing couple from Indore as “unprecedented,” urging the public and media to refrain from drawing premature conclusions as the investigation remains ongoing.
The body of Raja Raghuvanshi was recovered on Monday near Weisawdong Falls in Sohra, while search operations continue for his wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi. Teams from the NDRF, SDRF, and local police are working across the challenging terrain to trace her whereabouts.
“We are really shocked by what has transpired. This incident is unprecedented. No such crime has taken place in the past. We do not know the full story as yet, and therefore we cannot pronounce what actually happened,” Lyngdoh said, addressing the media on Tuesday.
He assured that the case is receiving the highest priority from law enforcement. “The investigation is on, and the state police have deployed all available resources. We cannot jump the gun as far as the investigation process is concerned. Fundamentally, the law will ensure—whatever has happened—the guilty will be brought to book.”
Addressing concerns about the possible impact of the incident on tourism, Lyngdoh appealed against generalising the situation. “As far as the tourism sector is concerned, the fact that a gentleman goes missing in Thailand does not mean Thailand is unsafe for travellers.”
Highlighting the positive experiences shared by recent visitors, Lyngdoh said, “Testimonies—some by YouTubers coming forward, a European traveller, and a lady from mainland India—they all testified that Meghalaya is a safe and tourist-friendly state. I do not belittle the enormity of the loss for the family, but this incident does not mean you paint an entire state with the same brush.”
He reiterated that the case is still under investigation and urged everyone to wait for the facts. “It is an isolated incident. We do not know the full story, and I do not want to summarise anything because the investigation is still ongoing, and one of the victims is yet to be traced.”
On improving tourist safety, the minister mentioned the recent launch of the Tourist Buddies Project, which aims to place trained guides at all major tourist destinations, including Sohra.
“Tourism is growing. We are bound to have more footfall. We have launched the Tourist Buddies Project today. Guides are present in all tourist destinations of Sohra,” Lyngdoh said, while clarifying that using the guides is optional. “The government cannot compel visitors to make use of their services. They have the free option to take their help or not.”
As the search for Sonam Raghuvanshi continues, officials remain hopeful and committed to uncovering the full truth behind the tragedy.
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