New Delhi: More than 500 women and girls were reported missing in Delhi within the first 15 days of 2026, making up nearly two-thirds of all missing persons cases recorded during this period, according to official police data.
Between January 1 and January 15, a total of 807 people were reported missing in the national capital—an average of about 54 cases every day. Of these, 509 were women and girls, while 298 were men. Police records show that only 235 individuals have been traced so far, leaving 572 cases unresolved.
Children and adolescents accounted for a significant portion of the missing cases, raising serious concerns over child safety. Minors made up 191 of the total reports, with girls disproportionately affected. Among these, 146 were girls and 45 were boys.
Teenagers formed the largest group within the missing minors category. A total of 169 adolescents went missing during the first half of January, including 138 girls and 31 boys. Police data indicates that nearly 71 per cent of these teenage cases remain unsolved.
Younger children were not spared either. Thirteen children aged between eight and 12 years were reported missing—eight boys and five girls—while nine children below the age of eight were also reported missing. Only six children from these younger age groups have been traced so far.
Adults continued to constitute the largest segment of missing persons. During the same period, 616 adults were reported missing, including 363 women and 253 men. Police managed to trace 181 adults, while 435 adult cases are still pending.
The latest figures reflect a worrying long-term trend in Delhi. In 2025 alone, the city recorded over 24,500 missing persons cases, with women accounting for more than 60 per cent of the total. A decade-long analysis shows that nearly 2.3 lakh people have gone missing in Delhi over the past 10 years, and around 52,000 cases remain unresolved.
Police officials said efforts to trace missing persons are ongoing, with heightened focus on cases involving women and children.
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