The Delhi Police was quick to dismiss viral reports claiming a spike in missing persons cases in the national capital. Calling the reports misleading and panic-inducing, the authorities stated that the hype was being peddled through “paid promotion” by certain individuals. While the Delhi Police did not name any specific perpetrators, social media was abuzz with speculation that the alleged hype was intentionally created to promote the recently released Rani Mukerji-starrer Mardaani 3. Several netizens claimed that the marketing team of Yash Raj Films, which backed the film, was responsible for amplifying the narrative online.

Did Mardaani 3 makers hype data? 

“According to the makers, Mardaani 3 focuses on a new issue involving the kidnapping of young girls aged 8–9 years from low-income groups across the country for a specific reason. Directed by Abhiraj Minawala, the film was released in theatres on January 30. Reports of missing persons during this period drew attention, leading many to believe that the news was connected to the film, which is based on a similar theme.”