The disappearance of 12-year-old Parinav, a student of Deens Academy in Bengaluru, sparked an intense search operation, where social media emerged as a crucial tool in tracking his movements. Parinav went missing on January 21 from his coaching center in Whitefield, Bengaluru, prompting authorities to utilize various resources to locate him.
Despite efforts to trace him through CCTV footage, Parinav managed to evade the police by constantly changing locations. The search took an unexpected turn when it reached a deadlock at the Majestic bus station, posing physical challenges for the authorities.
Recognizing the limitations of a traditional pursuit, social media played a pivotal role in mobilizing efforts to find Parinav. Volunteers stepped forward to visit Majestic, while online posters of the missing boy were widely circulated, creating extensive awareness among the public.
In a positive development, a resident of Bengaluru, currently in Hyderabad, recognized a boy resembling Parinav in the metro. The identification was based on the widely circulated pictures of the missing student. The boy was subsequently detained at Nampally metro station in Hyderabad, bringing a sense of relief to Parinav’s family, friends, and the online community that had actively engaged in the search.
Parinav’s father, Sukesh, a software engineer based in Whitefield, expressed gratitude towards the individuals who played a crucial role in locating his son. While the details of Parinav’s journey to Hyderabad remain unknown, the family is on their way to pick him up and reunite with him.
The mother of the missing child, who had earlier posted a video appealing for Parinav’s return, extended her thanks in another video. She acknowledged the collective effort and support from the community that contributed to the safe discovery of her son. Parinav, a class 6 student, is now under the care of the Nampally railway authorities until his family arrives.
This incident highlights the significant role that social media can play in mobilizing communities, raising awareness, and aiding authorities in locating missing individuals. The collaborative efforts of volunteers and the online community showcase the positive impact of digital platforms in times of crisis, fostering a sense of unity and support for those in need.
