Shimla Police have launched an intensive search after three students from the city’s oldest boarding school went missing during their routine weekly outing on Sunday. The incident has triggered anxiety among parents, teachers, and the local community, with authorities racing against time to trace the boys.
The Day Out That Turned Into a Nightmare
According to police reports, the three boys — all aged between 14 and 16 years — were part of a supervised group allowed to step out of the campus for recreational activities, a long-standing tradition at the institution. While most students returned to the hostel by the scheduled time, the three failed to show up.
School authorities immediately informed the Lakkar Bazar Police Station, and a missing persons alert was issued across the district.
Police Swing Into Action
Shimla Superintendent of Police (SP) confirmed that multiple search teams have been deployed. “We are scanning CCTV footage from market areas, bus stands, and popular tourist spots to retrace their movements,” the SP said.
The search operation has also expanded to nearby towns and highways in case the boys attempted to leave the city. Police have sought help from local shopkeepers, taxi drivers, and hotel owners to share any sightings or relevant information.
Community Joins the Hunt
News of the missing students spread quickly, prompting volunteers, trekking groups, and local NGOs to join the search. The school’s alumni network has also been sharing alerts on social media, hoping to reach someone who might have spotted them.
Parents of other students have expressed deep concern over security lapses during the outing, urging the school to review its monitoring system.
Historic School, Rare Incident
The boarding school, founded in the mid-1800s, has a rich legacy and is considered one of the most prestigious in the region. Incidents of students going missing are extremely rare, making the case all the more alarming for the administration and alumni community.
Police Seek Public Help
Authorities have urged residents and tourists in Shimla to stay alert and immediately report any information on the boys’ whereabouts. Posters with their photographs and descriptions have been circulated in bus stations, railway stations, and public spaces.
The police have also activated a dedicated helpline for tips related to the case, assuring that all leads will be pursued urgently.
Ongoing Investigation
While officials have not ruled out the possibility of the boys wandering off voluntarily, they are investigating all angles, including misadventure, abduction, or influence by external elements. “At this stage, no theory is being ignored,” said one senior officer.
The search is expected to continue through the night, with reinforcements being called in from nearby districts if required.
