RANCHI: In a significant push for better handling of missing children cases, the Jharkhand High Court has directed the state and central governments to consider framing a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for utilizing Aadhaar data in identification and search operations. This directive came during the hearing of a habeas corpus petition filed by the mother of a girl who went missing from Gumla district in 2018.
The bench, comprising Justice Sujit Narayan Prasad and Justice AK Rai, conducted the proceedings on Thursday. They sought detailed updates from the state police and government on the investigation’s progress. Representatives from Gumla DSP and the Anti-Human Trafficking unit were present in court, providing the latest insights into the probe.
The state informed the court that an FIR had been registered based on the mother’s complaint, and investigations are ongoing. Recognizing the case’s gravity, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed. This team has already visited potential locations in Delhi to gather leads. The child’s photograph has been widely circulated through various media to aid identification. Despite these efforts, no concrete clues have emerged yet, and the search continues relentlessly.
The court emphasized the critical need for technological integration in such sensitive matters. It highlighted that a clear SOP for the lawful use of Aadhaar-linked data would empower investigating agencies while maintaining a balance with privacy concerns. This approach could revolutionize how missing children cases are tackled across the nation.
In previous hearings, the court had voiced strong concerns over child trafficking in the state, surveillance of nomadic groups, and police efficiency. It made it clear that these cases demand utmost seriousness and robust policy frameworks. The latest order mandates the submission of a satisfactory progress report, underscoring the judiciary’s commitment to child safety.