Disappearing Cases Increase in National Capital: National Human Rights Commission Takes Suo Motu Cognisance

New Delhi: In the wake of a sharp rise in the number of missing persons in New Delhi, the National Human Rights Commission has taken suo motu cognisance of the matter. The Commission has sought clarification from the Delhi Chief Secretary and the Police Commissioner, directing them to submit a detailed report within two weeks.

Shocking figures have emerged showing that in the first two weeks of 2026 alone, 807 people were reported missing in the national capital. A majority of the missing persons are women and children, raising serious concerns.

According to data available up to January 27, only 235 out of the 807 missing persons have been traced so far. The whereabouts of the remaining 572 individuals remain unknown, and the Delhi Police have reportedly been unable to provide clear information regarding their status.

On average, 27 people go missing every day, while the police are able to trace only 9 individuals. Over the past 11 years, a total of 53,977 people have gone missing in Delhi.

The situation has sparked controversy, particularly after allegations surfaced that the Delhi Police acted against journalists who reported on the issue. Critics claim that the police attempted to downplay the matter by labeling the reports as paid allegations.

It was at this point that the National Human Rights Commission intervened, demanding a satisfactory explanation regarding the rising number of missing persons and the apparent failure of law enforcement agencies to locate them.