Recently, the Delhi High Court reprimanded the police for waiting 24 hours to start investigations in cases involving missing children, stressing that this initial period is crucial for achieving a positive outcome.

The bench, comprising Justice Pratibha M Singh and Justice Amit Sharma, emphasized, “The first 24-hour period is critical for tracing a missing person or child, as timely steps could lead to a positive outcome.”

The case arose from a writ petition filed by Mr. Vinod, seeking the production of his minor daughter who went missing on February 19, 2024, around 10:00 a.m. He suspected Shahnoor, son of Jumman Khan, of kidnapping her. Although an FIR was filed, the police waited 24 hours to begin investigating, assuming the minor might return during that period.

Standing Counsel Sanjay Lao, representing the state, presented a status report dated July 9,2024, detailing police actions.

The report noted that Call Detail Records (CDR) of various numbers, including the suspect Shaddam Khan's, were checked, and Shaddam's phone had been switched off since the girl's disappearance.