New Delhi: The missing person immediate FIR directive has been strongly reiterated by the Supreme Court of India. The Court clarified that police must register an FIR immediately whenever any person goes missing, regardless of age or gender. The apex court warned that States and Union Territories failing to follow this direction could face contempt proceedings. The order aims to improve the tracing of missing persons and strengthen efforts against human trafficking and abduction.
Supreme Court Clarifies Meaning of “Person”
A bench comprising Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Justice R. Mahadevan emphasized that the term “person” includes every individual, whether a child or an adult. The Court noted that some States were treating its earlier order as applicable only to missing children. It rejected this interpretation and said the earlier directions were clear and unambiguous.
Supreme Court Missing Person Immediate FIR Order
The Supreme Court directed that every police station must immediately register an FIR upon receiving information that a person is missing. The Court said police should not wait for a preliminary inquiry. Families should also not be asked to search on their own before an FIR is registered.
According to the Court, the first few hours after a disappearance are crucial and often provide the best chance of safely recovering the missing person.
States Warned of Contempt Proceedings
The Court expressed concern that several States and Union Territories had not fully complied with its earlier directions issued on May 22, 2026. It observed that non-compliance could amount to contempt of court.
The Court ordered issuance of contempt notices to Chief Secretaries and Directors General of Police (DGPs) of the concerned States and Union Territories. These officials have been directed to remain personally present and explain why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against them.
Focus on Human Trafficking Cases
The Supreme Court also directed that if investigators find indications of human trafficking, kidnapping, or abduction, the case should be transferred to specialized units without delay. The Court stressed that Anti-Human Trafficking Units (AHTUs) across the country must become fully functional and operational within the prescribed timeframe.
Missing Person Immediate FIR: Directions for Rescue and Rehabilitation
The Court stated that recovered or rescued persons should be reunited with their families after proper verification. However, if family members or guardians are found involved in trafficking or exploitation, the victim should not be returned to them.
In such cases, responsibility for protection and care should remain with State authorities and Child Welfare Committees where applicable.
Aadhaar Verification and Identity Protection
The Court also directed authorities to ensure Aadhaar verification or Aadhaar card issuance for recovered persons wherever necessary. This step is intended to help establish identity and improve rehabilitation efforts.
Integration of National Portals Ordered
To improve coordination among agencies, the Supreme Court directed the Union Government to integrate all relevant missing-person and trafficking-related portals across the country within six weeks. The Court believes better data sharing can significantly improve tracing and rescue operations.
Next Hearing Scheduled
The matter has been listed for further hearing on October 5, 2026, at 2 PM. The Court will review compliance by States, Union Territories, and other authorities regarding its directions on missing persons and anti-trafficking measures.
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