Supreme Court issues notice to Centre on PIL for setting up DNA and biometric ID system for missing, rescued kids
The Indian Supreme Court has issued notices to the government regarding a petition to establish a national DNA and biometric database for missing and rescued children. The goal is to create a centralized, interoperable system to improve the efficiency of reuniting children with their families.
Why it matters
Implementing a national biometric database could significantly improve child protection services and combat human trafficking through scientific identification.
The Supreme Court on Wednesday (August 19, 2026) sought responses from the Centre and the NCPCR on a PIL seeking the establishment of a national DNA and biometric identification system for missing and rescued children to facilitate scientific identification, tracing and reunification with their families.
A Bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana issued notices to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs and the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) after taking note of the petition filed by Reepak Kansal.
The petition, filed through advocate-on-record Pravir Choudhary, sought directions to the Centre and all the States and union territories (UTs) to create a centralised system, backed by statutory safeguards, for DNA and biometric identification of missing and rescued children.
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