The national capital is witnessing a disturbing surge in missing persons cases, emerging as a major social and public-safety concern. In just the first half of January 2026, 807 people were reported missing, translating to an alarming average of 54 cases every day. Official data shows that women and girls account for the majority of these cases, intensifying anxiety among families and placing renewed pressure on law-enforcement agencies.
Records indicate that between January 1 and January 15, 509 women and girls went missing, compared to 298 men. Of the total cases, 191 involved minors, while 616 were adults. Police have managed to trace 235 individuals, but 572 people remain missing, underlining the scale and persistence of the problem.
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Teen girls emerge as the most vulnerable group
Age-wise analysis reveals that adolescents face the highest risk. In the 12–18 age group, 169 teenagers were reported missing, including 138 girls and 31 boys. Only 48 teenagers have been traced so far, leaving 121 adolescents — nearly 71% — still unaccounted for.
Among children aged 8 to 12 years, 13 cases were reported — eight boys and five girls. Police were able to locate only three boys, while the remaining cases are under investigation. In the under-eight age group, nine children were reported missing, with three traced so far.
Child-rights activists warn that the high proportion of missing teenage girls points to deeper vulnerabilities linked to social pressures, digital exposure and gaps in preventive support systems.
Adult disappearances also a growing concern
Adults account for the largest share of missing cases in absolute numbers. During the first 15 days of January, 616 adults were reported missing — 363 women and 253 men. Police traced 181 adults (90 men and 91 women), but 435 adults remain missing.
Social experts suggest that domestic conflict, economic stress, unstable employment, mental-health challenges and the intense pace of urban life may be contributing factors behind adult disappearances. In some cases, individuals leave voluntarily, but delays in reporting often complicate investigations.
2025 backdrop highlights a persistent pattern
The current figures must be viewed against the backdrop of 2025, when Delhi recorded 24,508 missing persons cases, including 14,870 women. This context suggests that the spike seen in early 2026 is not an isolated fluctuation but part of a long-standing and unresolved trend.
Families across several neighbourhoods have expressed concern that delays in registering complaints or initiating search operations during the critical early hours significantly reduce the chances of recovery.
Police response and operational challenges
Police officials say that once a missing report is filed, efforts begin immediately using local station networks, CCTV footage, mobile-phone location analysis and coordination with neighbouring districts. However, the sheer volume of cases, Delhi’s dense population and frequent inter-state movement make tracing individuals increasingly complex.
Officers emphasise that the first 24 to 48 hours after a disappearance are crucial. Timely information, accurate descriptions and early alerts substantially improve the likelihood of tracing missing persons.
What experts are saying
Women’s safety advocates and child-rights organisations describe the data as a warning signal. They stress the need for school- and college-level counselling, improved digital literacy, safer public transport and stronger family-community vigilance.
Experts also point to the risks posed by social media, online grooming and unverified contacts, calling for sustained public-awareness campaigns rather than reactive policing alone.
Advisory for citizens
- Report any disappearance immediately, without waiting
- Provide recent photographs, identity details, phone numbers and last-seen information
- Avoid rumours and rely only on verified official updates
- Coordinate with local residents’ groups, schools and community networks
The rising number of missing persons cases makes it clear that this is not merely a law-and-order issue, but a shared social responsibility. Prompt reporting, coordinated action and continuous awareness remain the most effective tools for Delhi to confront this growing crisis.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
