Hearing a petition related to missing minors, a Division Bench observed that the situation was “extremely shocking,” noting that some girls have been untraceable for nearly a decade. The court questioned how such prolonged disappearances could persist without concrete leads or outcomes, despite repeated assurances of investigation.
The court flagged the possibility of human trafficking and asked the police to clarify whether the girls had left their homes voluntarily or were forced into trafficking networks. Judges noted that the absence of clear findings over such a long period pointed to systemic investigative lapses, warranting direct accountability from senior officers.
During the hearing, Shivpuri SP Aman Singh placed district-wise data on missing minor girls before the court. According to the submission, at least 30 minor girls have been reported missing from Shivpuri since 2014. Several of these cases remain unresolved, with families still awaiting answers.
Unsatisfied with the explanations offered, the High Court directed both the IG and SP to appear personally and furnish detailed information on four specific points. While the court did not disclose the points in open proceedings, sources indicated they relate to the status of investigations, inter-state coordination, use of technical surveillance, and action taken against any erring officers.
The Bench also sought clarity on whether standard operating procedures for missing children—such as immediate FIR registration, formation of search teams, coordination with child welfare committees, and tracking through railway stations and border checkpoints—were followed consistently in each case.
The matter has been posted for further hearing on January 19, 2026. The court indicated that stricter directions could follow if it finds continued negligence or lack of progress.
Legal observers say the summons reflects growing judicial concern over missing children cases in Madhya Pradesh, particularly in districts vulnerable to migration and trafficking routes. Activists working with child rights organisations have repeatedly flagged delays in investigations and inadequate follow-up as major hurdles in tracing missing minors.
For families of the missing girls, the court’s intervention has brought renewed hope. Many have alleged that investigations slowed down after initial searches, leaving them to pursue the matter on their own.
The High Court’s order is expected to compel the police administration to review old cases, strengthen coordination with neighbouring states, and adopt a more accountable approach. The outcome of the next hearing is likely to determine whether the court will issue time-bound directives or initiate action for dereliction of duty.
