Court Directs Police and National Commission for Women to Provide Detailed Reports and Strategies for Recovery
In a significant judicial intervention, the Madhya Pradesh High Court has taken cognizance of the alarming rate of missing minor girls in the Shivpuri District. The court, presided over by Justices G.S. Ahluwalia and Anil Verma, has called for immediate and comprehensive reports from the Gwalior Zone's Inspector General of Police and Shivpuri's Superintendent of Police. This action follows disturbing revelations that numerous minor girls have been unaccounted for over the past decade, with some cases dating back as far as 2014.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed by police officials that currently, 30 minor girls remain missing in Shivpuri. Of these, a significant number disappeared in the year 2025 alone. The court noted with concern the lack of clarity on whether these girls were recovered by police efforts or returned voluntarily, emphasizing the need for precise data and proactive measures.
The High Court has mandated the police to furnish detailed information on the total number of missing minors from 2014 to 2025, their recovery status, and the outcomes of police efforts in tracing them. Additionally, the court has urged the National Commission for Women to actively participate and assist in addressing this critical issue, with Deputy Solicitor General Praveen Kumar Newaskar representing the commission.
The court has expressed its discontent over the prolonged absence of a systematic approach to tackle the issue and has granted a week's time for the involved parties to submit their responses. The case is scheduled for further hearing on January 19, 2026.
Bottom Line:
Protection of minor girls - Alarming situation of missing minor girls in Shivpuri District highlighted - Court seeks detailed reports and actions from Police and National Commission for Women to address the issue effectively.
Statutory provision(s): Criminal Law.
