LHC seeks progress report in missing girls cases

LAHORE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 1st Jun, 2026) The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Monday expressed serious dissatisfaction over the Punjab Police's performance in recovering missing women and girls across the province, terming the non-recovery of a large number of girls a reflection of police inefficiency.

Chief Justice Aalia Neelum made the remarks while hearing a petition filed by Salma Bibi regarding the recovery of her daughter.

During the proceedings, DIG Investigation Punjab Shoaib Khurram Janbaz, DIG Legal Owais Malik and other relevant officials appeared before the court, while Assistant Advocate General Waqas Umar submitted a report on behalf of the Inspector General of Police (IGP).

According to the report, 3,258 women and girls were reported missing across Punjab as of April 22, 2026. Of them, 1,405 have been recovered, while 1,853 remain untraced.

Expressing concern over the figures, the chief justice observed that the situation would have been different, had timely and effective measures been taken by the police.

The court was informed that the statistics were based on FIRs registered between 2021 and 2026. DIG Investigation Shoaib Khurram Janbaz stated that a total of 105,244 FIRs had been registered during the period, with 103,351 women and girls recovered.

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However, 1,847 cases are still pending and the victims have yet to be traced.

When asked about the circumstances of the recovered girls, the DIG said nearly 80 percent had contracted marriages of their own free will. Based on their statements, kidnapping cases were subsequently dropped. He added that around 15 percent voluntarily returned home and recorded statements in favour of their parents.

The DIG sought an additional two months to recover the remaining missing girls, but the chief justice rejected the request, remarking that six years had already passed and no further extension could be granted.

In response to the court's query regarding efforts to trace the remaining girls, the DIG said special teams had been constituted and operations were underway under a coordinated strategy.

The court directed police authorities to submit a progress report within two weeks on efforts to recover the remaining missing girls. The chief justice observed that the court was granting a final 15-day opportunity and expected tangible results during the period.

The Lahore High Court subsequently directed the DIG Investigation Punjab to submit a comprehensive report on the remaining missing girls and adjourned further hearing of the case until June 18.