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Kidnapping / Abduction

A person has been kidnapped or abducted. This is an emergency situation requiring immediate police intervention and legal action.

Do this now
  1. 01Call 112 — Police Emergency IMMEDIATELY
  2. 02Rush to the nearest police station and file an FIR
  3. 03Provide recent photographs and description of the victim
  4. 04Share details of last known location, companions, and movements
  5. 05Do NOT negotiate with kidnappers directly — let police handle
  6. 06If ransom call is received, try to record it and inform police
  7. 07Check CCTV cameras at the last known location
  8. 08Inform all family members and close associates
Evidence to collect
  1. Photographs of the kidnapped person
  2. Details of last known location and time
  3. CCTV footage from the area
  4. Ransom calls or messages (if any)
  5. Vehicle number or description of abductors
  6. Witness statements from people who saw the incident
  7. Mobile phone location data
Documents you need
  1. FIR copy
  2. Photographs of the kidnapped person
  3. ID proof of the victim and complainant
  4. Mobile phone records
  5. CCTV footage evidence
  6. Witness statements
Where to complain
  1. Nearest Police Station — FIR (Zero FIR accepted)
  2. Police Control Room — 112
  3. Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (AHTU)
  4. State Crime Branch — For serious cases
  5. High Court — Habeas corpus petition
  6. CHILDLINE — 1098 (if child is kidnapped)
Laws that apply
  1. BNS Section 137 — Kidnapping from lawful guardianship
  2. BNS Section 87 — Kidnapping or abducting a woman to compel marriage
  3. BNS Section 140 — Kidnapping for ransom
  4. BNS Section 137(1)(a) — Kidnapping from India
  5. BNSS Section 173 — Information to police (FIR)
Understanding the issue

Kidnapping and abduction are serious criminal offences under BNS. Kidnapping from lawful guardianship (taking a minor without guardian's consent) is under Section 137, while kidnapping from India is under Section 136. Abduction involves compelling someone by force or deceit. If ransom is demanded, additional charges apply. Police must register an FIR immediately and begin investigation. For children, mandatory protocols under the Juvenile Justice Act apply.

When to see a lawyer

Contact a criminal lawyer immediately. If police are not acting, a lawyer can file a habeas corpus petition in the High Court. A lawyer is also essential if ransom demands are involved.