Delhi Police has firmly denied viral claims of a sudden spike in missing girls and children in the capital, stating that misleading narratives were amplified through paid social media promotions and warning of strict action against those spreading panic.

Over the past few weeks, social media platforms have been flooded with alarming posts and videos claiming that hundreds of girls and children had gone missing in Delhi within a short span of time.

These claims, often accompanied by emotional language and unverified figures, triggered widespread fear among parents and residents, with many questioning the safety of children in the national capital.

Several posts alleged the existence of organised gangs and suggested that law enforcement agencies were either overwhelmed or silent. As these narratives gained traction, they were widely shared across platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and WhatsApp, creating a sense of urgency and anxiety.

However, Delhi Police has now issued a strong and unambiguous clarification, stating that the claims of a “sudden surge” are factually incorrect and misleading, and that the panic was being deliberately amplified for monetary gain.

Delhi Police: ‘No Abnormal Spike, Claims Are Misleading’

In an official statement, Delhi Police categorically rejected the viral assertions, stating that there is no unusual or abnormal rise in missing girls or children cases in the capital.

“Claims of a sudden surge in missing girls and children in Delhi are misleading. After following several leads, it has been found that this hype is being pushed through paid promotions on social media,” a Delhi Police official said.

The police further warned that such actions would not be tolerated. “Creating panic among citizens for monetary gains is a serious offence. Strict legal action will be taken against those found spreading misinformation or exaggerating facts,” the statement added.

Officials stressed that missing person cases are routinely reported, registered, and investigated, and that data related to such cases is transparently maintained and reviewed on a regular basis. The police also urged citizens to rely only on official sources and verified information, rather than viral content.

What the Data Actually Shows

While earlier viral claims suggested an alarming spike, Delhi Police clarified that official data tells a very different story.

According to police records, around 807 missing person cases were reported between January 1 and January 15, which included men, women, and children. Of these, approximately 509 were women and girls. However, officials pointed out that these figures were being selectively presented without context.

In fact, the total number of missing person cases registered in January this year stood at around 1,777, which is lower than the monthly average recorded in previous years. Police data also indicates that Delhi has consistently reported between 23,000 and 24,000 missing person cases annually over the past decade, a figure that has remained largely stable despite population growth.

Crucially, authorities emphasised that a significant proportion of missing children are traced within days and reunited with their families, a fact often omitted from viral narratives.

Earlier Claims vs Official Clarification

This is not the first time that claims of a sudden rise in missing children have surfaced. In the past, similar narratives have emerged following isolated incidents or selective data interpretations, often gaining traction through emotionally charged content.

What distinguishes the current episode, Delhi Police noted, is the deliberate amplification through paid promotions, suggesting an organised attempt to monetise fear. Officials said investigations revealed that some social media pages were boosting posts to increase reach and engagement, thereby fuelling public panic.

By issuing a detailed clarification, the police aim to put an end to speculation and reassure citizens that there is no hidden crisis being ignored. “Every missing person complaint is treated with seriousness, registered immediately, and investigated as per protocol,” officials reiterated.

Why Misinformation Can Be Harmful

Experts warn that panic-driven misinformation can have serious consequences. Beyond creating fear among families, exaggerated claims can divert attention from genuine cases that require urgent intervention. They can also overwhelm helplines, spread distrust in institutions, and stigmatise certain communities.

Law enforcement officials noted that viral misinformation often complicates investigations, as false leads and public pressure can disrupt systematic police work. This is why the police have urged digital platforms and users to act responsibly and verify information before sharing.

The Logical Indian’s Perspective

At The Logical Indian, we believe that the safety of children and women is a non-negotiable concern that demands transparency, accountability, and compassion. However, amplifying fear through unverified or exaggerated claims does not strengthen child protection-it weakens it.

Misinformation, especially when driven by profit motives, risks overshadowing genuine cases, traumatising families, and eroding trust in systems designed to protect citizens.

Responsible journalism, verified data, and calm civic engagement are essential to addressing social concerns meaningfully.