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

Detailed Legal Analysis

If your teenage son has gone missing in Purnia, it is imperative to act quickly and follow the missing persons protocol established under Indian law.

Here are the steps you should take immediately:

• File a Missing Person Report: Report the disappearance to the local police station as soon as possible. Under Section 154 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (CrPC), the police are obligated to register an FIR (First Information Report) if a person is reported missing.
• Provide Detailed Information: When filing the report, provide detailed information about your son, including:
• Name, age, and physical description
• Last known whereabouts and time
• Clothing he was wearing
• Any distinguishing features or health issues
• Details of friends or acquaintances he may have been with
• Possible reasons for his disappearance
• Request a Police Search: Ask the police to initiate a search operation. They may use various means such as surveillance, inquiries with local contacts, and community engagement to locate your son.
• Engage with Local Communities: Involve local communities, such as schools, colleges, and religious institutions, to spread the word about your son’s disappearance. Distribute flyers and posters in areas where he was last seen.
• Use Social Media: Utilize social media platforms to share information about your son. Create a post with his photograph and details, and encourage others to share it to reach a wider audience.
• Follow Up with the Police: Regularly follow up with the police for updates on the investigation. Under Section 57 of the CrPC, the police are required to report back on the progress of investigations.
• Contact NGOs and Helplines: Reach out to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and helplines that specialize in missing persons cases. Organizations like the Missing Person's Bureau can provide additional support and resources.

It is crucial to remain hopeful and proactive throughout this process. Document all interactions with the police and other organizations for future reference. Ensure that you keep a record of names, dates, and any information shared.