Over the past 11 months, Delhi Police Assistant Sub-Inspectors (ASIs) Nirdesh Panwar and Rajdeep have reunited 223 missing children with their families, undertaking extensive investigations that spanned over 70 police stations and multiple states across India.
Their work, often beginning with little more than faded photographs and incomplete information, involved tracking digital footprints, analysing call records, and coordinating with law enforcement agencies beyond Delhi.
Their dedication has earned them out-of-turn promotions and widespread praise from senior officials and families alike, highlighting a beacon of hope amid the persistent challenge of child disappearances.
From Faded Photos to Tearful Reunions: The Journey of Two Dedicated Officers
ASIs Panwar and Rajdeep, both integral members of the Delhi Police’s Anti-Human Trafficking Unit, have each rescued over 100 children—Rajdeep has reunited 112 children, while Panwar has brought back 111. Their investigations are marked by relentless perseverance, often requiring them to travel across states such as Jammu, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Haryana.
They start their days early, scanning national crime databases for new cases and meticulously piecing together clues from CCTV footage, social media activity, and call records. “Every reunion is a moment of joy not just for the family, but for us as well,” said ASI Panwar.
Their work is not without challenges: many cases involve incomplete or outdated information, inactive phone numbers, and language barriers. Yet, their unwavering commitment ensures that no lead is left unexplored.
Senior police officials, including DCP (Shahdara) Prashant Priya Gautam, have lauded their efforts, noting that their out-of-turn promotions reflect the exceptional impact of their work.
The Complex Reality Behind Missing Children Cases
Delhi, like many metropolitan hubs, grapples with a high number of missing children cases, complicated by factors such as trafficking, migration, and socio-economic vulnerabilities. The stories behind these disappearances are often heartbreaking—some children run away due to family issues, others fall prey to traffickers, and many are lost in the labyrinth of urban anonymity.
ASIs Panwar and Rajdeep approach each case with empathy and meticulous care, understanding that every child’s story is unique. For instance, one case involved a 14-year-old girl who had been missing for months; the officers travelled overnight to Jammu and reunited her with her parents within hours of locating her. Another involved a girl missing since 2017, found in Saharanpur after years of dead ends.
“We can’t assume anything. We have to approach every case with care. At times, the breakthrough is quick. Many take days and months to crack,” shared ASI Rajdeep. Their work underscores the need for continued systemic support, inter-state cooperation, and public awareness to prevent children from going missing and to aid timely recoveries.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The tireless efforts of ASIs Panwar and Rajdeep exemplify the power of compassion, dedication, and innovation in public service. Their success stories remind us that behind every missing child statistic lies a family yearning for reunion and a child’s fundamental right to safety and care.
As a society, it is imperative that we support such frontline officers and advocate for stronger child protection mechanisms, including better reporting systems, community vigilance, and education on child rights.
Moreover, fostering empathy and awareness can empower communities to act swiftly and responsibly when children go missing. How can we, as citizens and institutions, collaborate more effectively to create safer environments and ensure that every missing child finds their way back home?
