More than 500 women and girls were reported missing in Delhi in the first 15 days of 2026, making up nearly two-thirds of all missing cases during the period, according to police data cited by PTI.
Of the 807 people reported missing between January 1 and 15, as many as 509 were women and girls, while 298 were men. This translates to an average of around 54 missing persons reported every day. Police records show that only 235 people have been traced so far, while 572 remain unaccounted for.
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Women and minors form the majority of missing cases
Police data highlighted serious concerns around women’s and children's safety. Among the total missing cases, 191 involved minors. Girls accounted for a large share, with 146 missing girls compared to 45 boys.
Teenagers formed the biggest group among missing minors. A total of 169 adolescents were reported missing during the period, including 138 girls and 31 boys. Police data shows that nearly 71 per cent of these teenage cases are still unresolved.
In the 8–12 age group, 13 children went missing: eight boys and five girls. Additionally, nine children below the age of eight were also reported missing. Only six children from these younger age groups have been traced so far, the report said.
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Adult cases remain high
Adults continued to account for the largest number of missing persons. Between January 1 and 15, 616 adults were reported missing in Delhi, including 363 women and 253 men. Police were able to trace 181 adults, while 435 cases are still pending.
The latest figures reflect a larger, long-term trend in the capital. In 2025, Delhi recorded over 24,500 missing persons cases, with women accounting for more than 60 percent. Over the past decade, nearly 2.3 lakh people have gone missing in the city, and around 52,000 cases remain unresolved.
Officials from Delhi Police said efforts to trace missing persons are ongoing, with special attention being given to cases involving women and children.
