My teenage son went missing from Dibrugarh two days ago, what should I do under the state missing persons protocol?

Detailed Legal Analysis

If your teenage son has gone missing in Dibrugarh, you should immediately report the matter to the local police, as the first step under the missing persons protocol in India.

Here are the steps you should follow:

• File a Missing Person Report: Go to the nearest police station in Dibrugarh and file a First Information Report (FIR) under Section 154 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973. Provide all necessary details about your son, including his physical description, last known whereabouts, clothing, and any other relevant information.
• Provide Identification: Bring along any identification documents of your son, such as his school ID, Aadhar card, or passport, to assist the police in their search.
• Contact Local Authorities: Apart from the police, you may also contact local government offices or child welfare organizations that work in Dibrugarh. They might have resources or advice on how to proceed.
• Engage with the Community: Inform neighbors, friends, and family about your missing son. Utilize social media platforms and local community groups to disseminate information about his disappearance.
• Follow-Up Regularly: After filing the report, maintain regular contact with the police to check on the progress of the investigation. Keep a record of all interactions with law enforcement.
• Consider Child Welfare Provisions: Under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, local authorities have a mandate to assist in locating missing children. You can approach the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) in Dibrugarh for additional support.

Additionally, it is important to remain calm and persistent throughout the process. The police are required to act on missing persons cases promptly; however, your involvement and follow-up can significantly aid in locating your son. Be aware of your rights under the law, specifically under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, including the safety of minors.

Remember that time is crucial in such situations, so act swiftly and efficiently to ensure the best possible outcome.