Raj Thackeray Writes To CM Devendra Fadnavis Over Rising Child Kidnappings In Maharashtra

Shiv Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray has written to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressing serious concern over the rising number of child abductions in the state, particularly incidents involving young girls in Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra. In a strongly worded letter, Thackeray accused the government of failing to address a growing public safety crisis while remaining preoccupied with budget-related matters during the winter session of the legislature.

In his letter, Thackeray cited National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data showing a nearly 30 per cent increase in child abductions between 2021 and 2024. He warned that organised interstate gangs are systematically targeting children, abducting them and forcing them into labour and begging across different regions.

Thackeray questioned the lack of visible and effective action against these criminal networks and asked why there appeared to be no clear or comprehensive strategy to prevent such crimes. He said the continued operation of these gangs in public spaces raised serious questions about law enforcement effectiveness.

He also criticised the way government data on missing children is presented, arguing that highlighting only the percentage of children recovered fails to capture the true extent of the problem. Thackeray pointed out that even when children are rescued, the psychological trauma they suffer often goes unaddressed. He demanded explanations on how these gangs are able to function so openly and repeatedly, and why the government has not taken what he described as strong and decisive action.

Calling for greater legislative and administrative attention, Thackeray urged the government to prioritise discussions on child abductions, missing girls and broader public safety concerns in the legislative assembly. He criticised the winter session for being largely consumed by the passage of supplementary budget approvals, often in the absence of ministers when questions on serious issues are raised.

As part of his suggestions, Thackeray said children seen begging in public places should be properly identified, even proposing DNA testing if required, to ensure their safety and trace their origins. He emphasised that the state government, in coordination with central agencies, must take concrete and coordinated steps to curb child abductions and protect vulnerable children.

Concluding his letter, Thackeray said the people of Maharashtra expect the government not just to debate these issues in the assembly, but to implement effective measures on the ground to ensure the safety and security of children across the state.