The incident has once again raised concerns over the safety of vulnerable children living on the streets in the national capital. Police say the investigation is progressing rapidly and forensic evidence is being examined.

An 11-year-old girl was allegedly abducted and killed in Delhi's Mehrauli area, prompting swift police action that led to the arrest of a cab driver within hours of her disappearance. According to police, the child went missing early Monday morning, after which her family alerted authorities through a PCR call. Investigators launched an immediate search operation using CCTV footage, local intelligence and technical inputs. The accused was later taken into custody, and the girl's body was recovered based on information provided during questioning. Police have sent the body for post-mortem examination and initiated further legal proceedings. The case has drawn attention to the challenges faced by economically vulnerable families living in public spaces across the city.

According to officials, the victim belonged to a family that survived through daily wage work and informal street vending. The girl reportedly sold balloons and other small items to support her family. Her parents work as daily labourers and have been living on a footpath after facing financial difficulties.

Police said the missing child report was received around 6 a.m. on Monday. Following the complaint, investigators reviewed surveillance footage and gathered information from multiple sources, eventually identifying a suspect.

Investigation Moves Quickly

Authorities stated that the accused, an app-based cab driver, was detained and questioned shortly after being identified. During the investigation, police recovered the girl's body from a forested area in Mehrauli based on the suspect's disclosure.

Officials said forensic evidence and the post-mortem report will play a crucial role in determining the sequence of events and strengthening the prosecution's case. Further investigation remains underway.

Family Background

According to police sources, the victim's family originally hails from Bihar and had previously lived in rented accommodation. Financial hardship reportedly forced them to vacate their home, after which they began living on the roadside.

Police records indicate that the accused is also from Bihar. Authorities said he had previously faced cases related to assault and driving under the influence, though investigators are examining whether those incidents have any connection to the current case.

Concerns Over Child Safety

The case has renewed concerns about the safety of children living in vulnerable conditions in urban areas. Child rights advocates have repeatedly called for stronger protection mechanisms for families residing on footpaths and in temporary settlements.

Officials said relevant legal provisions relating to the alleged crimes have been invoked and the investigation is being monitored closely. Once the inquiry is completed, a detailed chargesheet will be filed before the court. The case remains under active investigation by Delhi Police.