The Delhi High Court has asked the Centre and Delhi Police to respond to a petition seeking strict implementation of statutory protocols for missing persons investigations. The court has scheduled the next hearing for February 18, 2026.

Background of the Petition

The petition was filed by NGO Freedom Reclaimed following recent reports highlighting that 807 individuals went missing in Delhi during the first two weeks of January 2026. Delhi Police later stated that these figures were being amplified through paid promotions and warned against spreading panic for monetary gain.

Earlier, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) took suo motu cognizance of the reports, issuing notices to the Delhi Chief Secretary and Commissioner of Police, seeking a detailed report within two weeks.

Key Concerns Raised by the NGO

The NGO’s petition emphasizes that, despite a comprehensive legal framework governing missing persons cases, authorities have consistently failed to comply with mandates. These include:

• Treating missing person complaints as cognisable offences with immediate FIR registration

• Adhering to the December 2016 SOP for time-bound, child-centric investigations

• Following Supreme Court directions and Delhi Police Act standing orders

The petition states that authorities often delay FIR registration, ignore the critical “Golden Hour” after a disappearance, and exhibit administrative inertia, which undermines the effectiveness of investigations.

Underutilization of Technology

The petition also highlights a failure to use advanced tools like the Facial Recognition System (FRS) and National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) databases during crucial initial stages. According to the NGO, delayed or improper use of technology reduces the chances of early tracing and recovery, particularly for missing children.

The NGO urged the court to ensure strict enforcement of protocols to protect missing persons and strengthen investigative efficiency.