Odisha Police's Operation Anweshan Achieves Remarkable Success in Rescuing Missing Persons
In a significant development for public safety, the Nuapada police in Odisha have successfully rescued over a hundred missing persons within just two months, both within and outside the state. This commendable effort is part of the broader police initiative known as "Operation Anweshan", which is specifically designed to trace and rescue missing children and women across Odisha.
Impressive Statistics from the Rescue Operations
According to official statements, the police have made substantial progress through continuous and dedicated efforts. Amrit Pal Singh, the Superintendent of Police (SP) for Nuapada, highlighted the achievements, stating, "Through continuous efforts, our police have rescued 114 missing women and children in the last two months. A significant achievement under Anweshan II was the rescue of 38 women and one minor girl in just two days."
The operation has been divided into phases, with notable results in each:
- In December 2025, with the launch of Operation Anweshan I, a total of 55 individuals were traced from various locations. This included 15 minor girls, 38 women, and 2 minor boys.
- Similarly, in Operation Anweshan II, as of January 23, 59 missing cases have been resolved. This led to the rescue of one minor girl and 58 women, all of whom were safely handed over to their families after thorough verification processes.
Coordinated Efforts and Future Prospects
SP Amrit Pal Singh emphasized that police teams are working tirelessly to trace other missing persons through swift and coordinated actions. He expressed optimism that these efforts should yield positive results in the coming months, underscoring the commitment to solving such cases promptly.
Since the operation's inception, the police have placed special emphasis on addressing missing person cases. Multiple specialized teams have been formed and deployed to ensure victims are traced quickly, demonstrating a proactive approach to law enforcement and community safety.
Understanding the Causes Behind Missing Cases
Police sources have identified a major reason for women and girls going missing: elopement with partners on the promise of marriage. Unfortunately, many are later abandoned and find themselves unable to return home, leading to these distressing situations.
However, authorities have clarified that there is no connection to human trafficking for prostitution or other illicit activities in these cases. This distinction helps focus efforts on the specific social issues at play, rather than broader criminal networks.
The success of Operation Anweshan highlights the effectiveness of targeted police initiatives in enhancing public safety and addressing critical social challenges in Odisha.
