Raja Raghuvanshi's sister Srishti booked in Assam over human sacrifice claims
PTC Web Desk: In a significant development in the Raja Raghuwanshi murder case, the Assam Police have filed a case against Srishti Raghuwanshi, the cousin of the victim, following her controversial statement in a video where she alleged that Raja's death was a result of human sacrifice in Assam. The video, which surfaced online, became the basis for the case.
Kamakhya temple priest Saru Doloi Himadri has strongly condemned these claims, stating that whenever a murder occurs near the temple, the issue of human sacrifice is often raised, which damages the sentiments of the local people. He described the allegations of Raja's death being linked to a ritual sacrifice as inflammatory and divisive, potentially inciting regional tensions.
The police have booked Srishti under Sections 196(2), 299, and 302 of the BNS for making these allegations.
Raja's brother, Vipin Raghuwanshi, expressed that they were unaware of the circumstances surrounding the case but acknowledged that both Raja’s mother, Uma, and his brother had suspected the possibility of human sacrifice earlier.
Srishti, an influencer with a large social media following, had been active on platforms appealing for help during the search for Raja, who went missing in Meghalaya on May 23. His body was discovered on June 2 near the Vaisadong Falls. After the case became controversial, Srishti issued an apology on social media, stating that she made the "human sacrifice" claim in an emotional state and never intended to hurt anyone's religious or community sentiments.
Her videos, in which she continued to campaign for justice after Raja's murder and Sonam's arrest, went viral, leading to widespread trolling. However, some social media influencers came to her defense, calling out the backlash.
Raja’s mother Uma had earlier raised concerns about the possibility of human sacrifice. She speculated that after the suspects visited the Kamakhya Temple for a ritual, Raja was attacked. The family believes that 15 individuals might be involved in the murder.
Kamakhya Temple authorities have firmly rejected these accusations, with the priest stating that the temple has no history or practice of human sacrifice. He said the temple was renowned for its Vedic rituals and called for stricter regulations to prevent such harmful claims against one of the country's most prestigious Shakti Peeths.
- With inputs from agencies
