First four hours are crucial for tracing missing children, says activist
Child rights activist Andrew Sesuraj highlights operational challenges and the need for scientific investigation in Tamil Nadu.
Child rights activist and IDEA Child Rights Group director Andrew Sesuraj said that tracing missing children becomes exceptionally difficult if they are not located within the first four hours. Speaking to The Federal, Sesuraj noted that children are vulnerable targets and that administrative delays can signal to perpetrators that they can escape consequences.
In Tamil Nadu, missing children cases are spread across various districts rather than being confined to specific regional clusters. Sesuraj observed that while reporting fluctuates, a single high-profile case often leads to a surge in other reported instances.
The activist pointed to a case in Gingee involving a missing six-year-old as an example of operational challenges. Despite tracking 600 mobile phones, authorities have not established a conclusive trace, and search teams were still questioning family members 15 days later.
Sesuraj suggested that investigations must move beyond standard local policing and CCTV checks to become more scientific. He noted that victims are often moved across district or state borders within hours of disappearing.
According to Sesuraj, National Crime Records Bureau data frequently ranks Tamil Nadu among the five states with the highest reported crimes against women and children. He attributed this partly to better public awareness and administrative reporting mechanisms in the state.
While various political parties have announced protests regarding crimes against women and children, Sesuraj stated that child protection must evolve into a sustained social movement involving civil society and non-governmental organisations.