National Human Rights Commission (NHRC): While considering the critical matter of over 3000 missing girls in Andhra Pradesh, that was reported by “The Hans India” on 24-01-2024, the Commission issued notice to the Chief Secretary, Govt. of Andhra Pradesh and Director General of Police calling upon them to submit requisite response in the matter within twelve weeks.
The petitioner, who is an advocate and a human rights activist, brought to notice before the Commission, a news article wherein it was reported that over 3000 girls have gone missing in Andhra Pradesh. It was reported that more than 8 girls have gone missing every day, and one out of them remains untraced as per the data indications received in 2022.
The news report also mentioned that 474 missing and untraced girls were reported from previous years, contributing to a total of 3,592 reported missing girls in the state; of them, 3,221 girls were recovered or traced, however, 371 girls still remained untraced.
Highlighting the afore-stated statistics, the petitioner contended that the State machinery had failed to address the issue and has turned blind eye to the situation. It was submitted that this official apathy violates Arts. 21, 23 of the Constitution and Section 2(d) of Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. The petitioner also cautioned that if the current situation remains unchecked, then more girls may be subjected to the perils of kidnapping, assaults, child labour and other unspeakable horrors.
Therefore, the petitioner sought that the NHRC takes cognizance of the situation issue suitable directions to the authorities concerned including submission of a status report on the missing girls. The petitioner further sought directions for the State Govt.
Taking note of the seriousness of the matter, the Commission deemed it fit to issue notices to the Chief Secretary, Govt. of Andhra Pradesh and DGP to submit the required response in 12 weeks.
[In re. More than 3000 missing girls in State of Andhra Pradesh, Case No. 236/1/0/2024, decided on 23-04-2024]
Advocates who appeared in this case :
Petitioner- in-person: Y. Balachander Reddy, Advocate
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