Delhi Police on Friday strongly denied social media claims suggesting a sudden and alarming rise in missing persons, especially girls, in the national capital. Calling these posts misleading and motivated by money, the police said such narratives are being deliberately pushed through paid online promotions and are creating unnecessary fear among the public.
In an official clarification, the police stated that after checking multiple digital leads, it was found that the so-called “missing girls surge” was not organic but amplified using sponsored content. Authorities warned that spreading panic for financial or publicity gains would not be tolerated and legal action would be taken against those responsible.
The clarification came after certain online reports highlighted data claiming that over 800 people went missing in Delhi in the first half of January. These reports suggested that a large number of the missing were women, girls, and minors, leading to widespread concern on social media platforms.
Delhi Police acknowledged that missing person cases are registered regularly, but stressed that raw numbers are often misinterpreted without context. Officials said many missing cases are resolved within days or weeks, and tracing efforts continue even after initial reports.
The police further explained that in several cases, children or adults return home on their own, but families fail to update the police. As a result, records are not immediately closed, making the figures appear higher than the ground reality.
Reassuring citizens, the police said that special units, including the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit, are working round-the-clock to trace missing persons and reunite them with their families as quickly as possible. Protecting children and women remains a top priority, officials added.
Delhi Police also urged citizens not to believe unverified social media posts or forward alarming messages without confirmation. “Misrepresentation of data and fear-mongering damages public trust and creates panic,” the police said, adding that strict action will be taken against those spreading rumours.
