Pune Fact Check: No, 123 Girls Were Not Abducted in 22 Hours; Police Debunk Viral Audio
A viral audio clip claiming that 123 girls were abducted in Pune within 22 hours has created panic among residents. Pune Police have clarified that the claim is baseless and misleading. The figure being circulated is reportedly linked to missing-person cases that are recorded as kidnapping under Supreme Court guidelines, and does not mean that 123 girls were forcibly abducted.
Pune: A viral audio message circulating on social media has sparked concern among Pune residents by claiming that 123 girls were abducted from different parts of the city within just 22 hours. The alarming claim has been widely shared through messaging platforms, prompting people to question the safety of women and girls in the city.
However, Pune Police have clarified that the viral audio is baseless and should not be believed or forwarded. According to the police, the number mentioned in the audio does not represent 123 confirmed cases of girls being abducted.
Police have explained that the figure is connected to missing-person cases that are recorded under kidnapping provisions in accordance with Supreme Court guidelines. Such cases are registered so that police can initiate appropriate investigation and tracing procedures. The registration of a missing-person case under these provisions does not automatically establish that the person was forcibly kidnapped.
Officials have also pointed out that many people reported missing leave their homes voluntarily for various reasons. Therefore, combining such cases and presenting the total figure as confirmed abductions can create a completely misleading impression and cause unnecessary fear among citizens.
The viral audio has therefore been described as an attempt to create panic by presenting missing-person data without the necessary context. Police have urged citizens to verify such claims before sharing them on WhatsApp, social media platforms or other messaging groups.
Authorities have appealed to residents to rely on official police updates and verified information rather than unverified audio messages or social media posts. People have also been advised not to circulate claims that could create fear or confusion among the public.
At the same time, police have reiterated that anyone who is genuinely missing or facing a threat should immediately approach the nearest police station and report the matter. Citizens requiring urgent assistance can also contact the 112 emergency helpline.
The clarification comes amid growing concern over misleading information being circulated online. Police have once again appealed to citizens to stay alert, verify information and avoid forwarding unverified messages.
The viral claim that 123 girls were abducted in Pune within 22 hours is therefore misleading and should not be treated as confirmed information.