New Delhi, 11 February (H.S.): On Wednesday, the Delhi High Court, hearing a petition demanding action on over 800 people reported missing in the first 15 days of 2026, issued notices to the Centre, Delhi government, Delhi Police, and National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB).

The next hearing is scheduled for February 18.During the proceedings, the court inquired whether a similar petition on missing persons is pending before the Supreme Court. The petition specifically seeks intervention over the disappearance of more than 800 individuals between January 1 and 15.

The petitioner's counsel argued that the Right to be Found constitutes an essential component of the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution.The plea contends that mandatory protocols for tracing missing persons are not being followed.

Although Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) exist for searching missing individuals, they are not enforced rigorously, leading to large-scale disappearances in Delhi without adequate response.A report indicated that 807 people vanished from Delhi between January 1 and 15, sparking widespread public reaction.

On February 6, Delhi Police tweeted that reports of a surge in missing persons cases were being promoted for payment, warning of action against those instilling fear.

Meanwhile, the National Human Rights Commission took suo motu cognizance, issuing notices to the Delhi government and police demanding detailed responses within two weeks, deeming the matter gravely serious if verified.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar