Delhi Police Report Indicates No Significant Increase in Missing Children Cases
Delhi Police have clarified that there has been no alarming surge in missing persons or missing children cases in the Capital, with January 2026 figures aligning closely with trends observed over the past three years. This statement comes amid public concern following data showing 807 individuals, including children, reported missing between January 1 and 15, 2026. Authorities emphasize that these numbers do not represent a sharp rise and actually reflect a decline compared to the same period in previous years, urging calm among residents.
Consistent Trends in Missing Persons Data Over Recent Years
An analysis of Delhi Police data from January 2024 to January 2026 shows remarkable stability in the total number of missing persons. In January 2024, 1,684 people were reported missing, followed by 1,786 in 2025, and 1,777 in 2026. Similarly, the number of missing children has not witnessed any alarming changes. This January, 430 children were reported missing, slightly lower than the 436 cases recorded in January 2025. Among these, the 12-18 age group accounted for the majority, with 383 cases this year, consistent with previous figures of 386 in 2024 and 392 in 2025.
Age-Wise Breakdown and Key Concerns for Vulnerable Groups
Police officials note that most missing children in the 12-18 age group are girls, with cases often linked to elopement, romantic relationships, or voluntary departures from home due to arguments over mobile phones, gadgets, or personal demands. In the more vulnerable 0-8 years age group, where risks of trafficking or illegal adoption are higher, the numbers have shown a decrease: 32 children went missing in January 2024, 18 in 2025, and 17 in 2026. Untraced cases in this category stood at 18 in 2024, 7 in 2025, and 12 in 2026, indicating ongoing efforts but persistent challenges.
For the 8-12 age group, a gradual downward trend is observed, with 34 children reported missing in January 2024, 26 in 2025, and 30 in 2026. Untraced cases in this group were 23 in 2024, 17 in 2025, and 15 in 2026. Police attribute many of these cases to family disputes, poverty, unfulfilled demands, or matrimonial discord, often involving children from single-parent households.
Police Response and Investigative Measures
Joint Commissioner of Police (Central Range) Madhur Verma stated, "Children in the 0-8 age group are given the highest priority, as they carry the risk of being trafficked and undergoing illegal adoption. However, an objective analysis of January data over the last three years does not indicate an alarming situation." Delhi Police treat every missing child under 18 as a kidnapping case to ensure prompt and thorough investigations. Special Commissioner of Police (Crime) Devesh Chandra Srivastava added that no organised gang or criminal network has been found involved in these cases, with standard operating procedures strictly followed and dedicated missing persons squads active in all districts.
The 'Operation Talash' drive, launched in 2022 to trace missing persons, is managed by the Delhi Police's North District under the Central Range. Despite these efforts, tracing adolescents, especially girls aged 12-18, often involves legal complications. In consensual relationship cases, criminal charges must be filed due to the minors' age, leading to longer investigations and frequent registrations under the Juvenile Justice Act and rape-related sections, which complicates recovery and rehabilitation.
Overall Assessment and Public Assurance
While the proportion of untraced cases remains a concern, Delhi Police assert that the overall data does not point to a sharp rise in missing children. They highlight consistent numbers over the years and ongoing initiatives to address the issue. The Crime Branch's Anti-Human Trafficking Unit is actively involved, and efforts are made to prioritize cases involving younger children. This comprehensive approach aims to balance public safety with accurate data representation, ensuring that resources are effectively allocated to protect vulnerable populations in the Capital.
