Meghalaya DGP indicates there could be more to honeymoon murder — ‘Motive doesn’t sit very well’

Shillong, Meghalaya — June 17, 2025:
What was supposed to be a romantic getaway for a newlywed couple turned into a horrifying crime scene in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills. A 31-year-old woman from Nagaland, just days into her marriage, was found dead under suspicious circumstances during her honeymoon in the scenic town of Cherrapunjee. Her husband, identified as 30-year-old Allen Teron from Assam, has been arrested for her alleged murder.

However, what initially appeared to be a case of a domestic argument gone wrong has now taken a darker turn. Meghalaya Director General of Police (DGP) Idashisha Nongrang told media outlets on Monday that the motive put forth by the accused “doesn’t sit very well” with investigators — suggesting a far more complex story.

A Crime That Shook the Hills

According to police sources, the couple had checked into a guesthouse near Cherrapunjee, a popular tourist destination known for its waterfalls and lush landscapes. Within two days of their arrival, the woman was dead, and Allen confessed to the crime. He initially claimed that a heated argument escalated into violence, resulting in his wife’s death.

But investigators were skeptical from the start. “There are elements in this case that point to premeditation rather than an impulsive act,” said a senior police officer involved in the probe. “The timeline of events, digital traces, and forensic evidence all suggest that the murder may have been planned.”

‘Motive Doesn’t Sit Well’: DGP’s Statement Raises Questions

Addressing the media, DGP Nongrang made it clear that this case was far from closed. “There are gaps in the story presented by the accused. The motive, as claimed, doesn’t sit very well with us. We are looking into various angles — including financial, emotional, and even possible external influences.”

While the exact motive remains under wraps, sources close to the investigation indicate that police are examining call logs, text messages, and financial transactions between the couple. Early analysis points to a strained relationship marked by distrust and possibly hidden financial pressures.

Digital Footprints and Forensic Clues

Police have retrieved mobile phones and electronic devices belonging to both the victim and the accused. Investigators are now analyzing whether Allen had communicated with anyone else before or after the murder, and whether there was a larger conspiracy involved.

Forensic experts reported that the woman died of blunt force trauma. The time of death and the delay in reporting it have added to the suspicion. “There is a noticeable gap between the estimated time of death and when the police were informed,” confirmed a forensics official. “This delay is critical to understanding the sequence of events and potential motive.”

A Family’s Search for Answers

The victim’s family, devastated by the tragedy, is demanding a thorough and transparent investigation. “We sent our daughter off with the hope that she would begin a new life. We never expected this to happen so soon,” said her grieving father, who traveled from Dimapur after hearing the news.

Relatives claim they had reservations about the marriage but were assured by Allen’s family that he was a responsible man. “We need answers. We need to know why this happened,” her brother said during a press briefing.

The body was handed over to the family after a post-mortem at a government hospital in Shillong. A second autopsy has not been ruled out, depending on the direction of the ongoing investigation.

Social and Political Pressure Mounts

The shocking nature of the crime has ignited public outrage across Meghalaya and Nagaland. Women’s rights groups have expressed concern about safety and justice for women, especially in cases where they are far from home.

“It’s terrifying to think that someone could be murdered on their honeymoon. It speaks volumes about how little some women know the people they marry,” said a representative from a women’s NGO in Shillong.

Lawmakers from both Meghalaya and Nagaland have urged police to treat the case with utmost seriousness. “We hope the investigation will be thorough, and that the guilty — whether one or more — will be punished swiftly,” said a Meghalaya state legislator.

Legal Action and Next Steps

Allen Teron has been booked under IPC Section 302 for murder and remains in police custody. His legal team has not issued any formal statement yet, but sources confirm he may seek bail citing emotional distress. Police, however, are confident they have enough preliminary evidence to oppose bail.

“We are not ruling out the involvement of others or the possibility of a larger motive,” said DGP Nongrang. “Every detail is being checked. There is no question of letting anything slide.”

The case is expected to be transferred to a fast-track court. If convicted, Allen could face life imprisonment or the death penalty, depending on how the court views the nature of the crime.

Final Thoughts

The tragic murder of a newlywed woman during her honeymoon has left two states in shock and mourning. What began as a celebration of love ended in a brutal loss of life — and now, a pursuit for justice. As police dig deeper into the case, the public watches closely, hoping that the full truth will eventually come to light.