The Delhi Police swiftly refuted viral claims regarding a surge in missing persons cases in the capital, labeling the reports as misleading and panic-inducing. Authorities indicated that the exaggerated narratives were being disseminated through ‘paid promotion’ by certain individuals. While no specific names were mentioned, speculation on social media suggested that the hype was strategically crafted to promote the recent Rani Mukerji film, Mardaani 3. Many netizens accused the marketing team at Yash Raj Films, the film’s producer, of amplifying this narrative online.
Did the Mardaani 3 Team Manipulate the Data?
The creators of Mardaani 3 stated that the film tackles a pressing issue of young girls, specifically aged 8–9, being abducted from low-income communities across India for specific reasons. Directed by Abhiraj Minawala, the film premiered in theaters on January 30. The coinciding reports of missing persons during this time sparked speculation that the news was linked to the film’s theme.
Mid-Day sought a response from Yash Raj Films regarding the allegations against the Mardaani 3 team. A spokesperson categorically denied the accusations, asserting, ‘Yash Raj Films has been operating for 50 years based on the principles of ethics and transparency. We firmly reject the claims circulating on social media that the promotional campaign for Mardaani 3 has sensationalized a delicate issue. We have complete faith in our authorities to disclose the facts over time.’
Overview of Missing Persons Reports in Delhi and Mumbai
According to data from the Delhi Police obtained by PTI, 807 individuals were reported missing between January 1 and 15, comprising 509 women and girls and 298 men. Among these cases, 191 were minors while 616 involved adults. The alarming statistics led to sensational headlines and widespread social media sharing, causing panic among residents.
Addressing these concerns, the Delhi Police took to social media, advising the public not to panic over rumors about missing persons, especially concerning children. They confirmed that there has been no rise in missing persons cases compared to previous years.
Delhi Police PRO Sanjay Tyagi stated on Thursday that the data indicates no increase in missing-person reports this year compared to previous years. In fact, January 2026 recorded fewer cases than the same period last year. ‘There’s no reason to fear or panic regarding missing persons in Delhi, particularly children. The statistics show a decrease in reports compared to previous years,’ Tyagi explained in a video released by the Delhi Police.
Similarly, Mumbai has faced its own wave of alarm-inducing reports. The Mumbai Police countered these claims with a statement asserting, ‘Misinformation about missing and kidnapped children is being spread by certain accounts. We deny these claims, and FIRs are being filed against those who propagate rumors and incite panic.’