6,240 children missing in Gujarat in two years, 553 still untraced

Concerns over the safety of children in Gujarat were raised in the state Assembly after data revealed that thousands of children have gone missing in the past two years. Opposition leaders questioned the government and raised fears about possible human trafficking, urging authorities to take stronger action.

According to figures shared in the Assembly, a total of 6,240 children have been reported missing from 24 districts of Gujarat over the last two years. Out of these, 553 children are still untraced, even after long investigations. The figures have raised serious concerns about the safety of children in the state.

The issue was discussed during the final phase of the budget session, where a heated debate took place over the law and order situation. Opposition members demanded that the Home Department launch a special drive to trace the missing children and asked the police to be proactive.

Apart from missing children, the Assembly also discussed cases of missing women. Data presented in the House showed that 67 women went missing in the last two years. The highest number of cases were reported from Ahmedabad (20) and Surat (15), while complaints were received from more than 15 districts across the state.

However, the Home Department informed the Assembly that all the missing women have now returned safely and no woman is currently untraced.

During the discussion, MLA Vimal Chudasama also raised concerns about the possibility of human trafficking and asked the government whether any gangs are operating in the state.