JOIN USFourteen children were reported missing on an average daily in the capital last year. In 2012, 3,675 kidnapping cases were registered as against 3,529 of 2011.
In order to deal with the problem, an analysis of reasons based on data provided by Delhi Legal Services Authority was done. “This analysis is being used to create awareness during our meetings with public in most-affected areas,” said Delhi Police commissioner Neeraj Kumar.
Investigation was hampered due to absence of photographs of the children. In order to tackle the problem, a scheme ‘Pehchaan’ was launched.
“A photograph is taken of the family with all children and a copy of the photograph is given to the family for record so that in case a child is reported missing, his photograph is available,” Kumar added.
This scheme has been implemented in areas where maximum children are reported missing.
Over 64,000 children have been given photographs under this scheme.
District missing persons unit at the district level and missing persons squad for the whole of Delhi under crime branch monitor the cases of missing children. Anti-human trafficking units (AHTU) are also present in each district and one in crime branch.
“If a child is not recovered within four months, the case is transferred to AHTU of district for specialised investigation. If it is felt that there might be an involvement of an organised gang, the case is taken up by crime branch,” Kumar said. Cases with international linkages are transferred to AHTU in CBI.