Mumbai: India’s financial capital, known as the “city of dreams,” is facing a disturbing trend. While thousands of young boys and girls flock to Mumbai every year to chase aspirations in cinema, glamour and employment, a dark reality is unfolding beneath the surface — a worrying rise in missing minors, particularly girls.
According to Mumbai Police data, more than 370 minors have gone missing between June and the first week of December. Shockingly, 268 of them are girls, accounting for nearly 72% of all cases. On average, about 60 children go missing every month, painting a grim picture of the safety of young girls in the city.
How the Police Are Tracing Missing Children
A senior officer from Mumbai Police’s Missing Cell said that in many cases, minor girls leave home voluntarily — often with friends or due to romantic relationships. However, instances of human trafficking and exploitation have also been detected, prompting deeper investigations.
Police rely on CCTV footage, mobile phone tracking and local intelligence to trace missing minors. But the constant rise in new complaints each month is increasing pressure on the department.
Family and Society Must Stay Alert
Rajesh Pandey, a Mumbai Police constable credited with tracing over 600 missing children, said parents, family members and even school authorities must remain attentive to behavioral changes, mood shifts and social media activities of teenagers.
He stressed that parents should immediately file a police complaint when a child goes missing, instead of waiting or attempting to search on their own.
Month-wise Breakdown of Missing Children in Mumbai
Month Total Missing Girls June 70 56 July 59 37 August 51 37 September 51 37 October 57 41 November 71 52 December (till 6th) 11 8
Key Facts
- Time period: June to 6 December
- Total missing: 370+
- Girls missing: 268+ (72%)
- Highest number of cases: November (71)
- Average monthly missing cases: 55–60
Where to Report a Missing Child
- Mumbai Police Control Room: Dial 100 or 112
- Childline (for minors): Call 1098
- Nearest police station: File an FIR
- Track the Missing Child Portal: trackthemissingchild.gov.in