Dear Readers,

This subject is deeply personal and emotional for me. For over 47 years, I’ve been searching for my elder brother, who went missing in September 1977. ( Born in 1950 disappeared in 1977,He was 3 years older than me), During this period I was working for a Chemical Company DAI-ICHI ,Pune( 1977).Despite my relentless efforts, his whereabouts remain unknown. It’s heartbreaking to see everyone move on with their lives – his wife and son, who are both doctors,(Medical professional) have rebuilt their lives, and my own family, including my parents and other two brothers and their wives, had all passed away. The only ones remaining are my immediate family and me. I am the last pillar of my family’s/ generation’s legacy.The situation is unbearable, as people can offer condolences when someone passes away, but when a person is untraceable, it’s unimaginably painful.

My brother had the distinction of being the topper in Inorganic Chemistry at Poona University.He then pursued his Doctorate in Organometallic Compounds under Prof. R. C. Mehrotra.A renowned Professor of Chemistry, Professor had a illustrious academic career, serving as the HOD of Chemistry,Jaipur University and later as Vice Chancellor of Jaipur University and Delhi University. My brother was a brilliant scientist who authored two books on chemistry, specifically organometallic compounds of Tin chemical name (Stannum, Sn)published by Academic Press in London.He had completed his postdoctoral research at the Universite’ de Nice , France, where Professor Reiss was his co-author. His disappearance occurred just 1.5 months after his marriage,( his son is a carbon copy of him, a remarkable example of nature’s justice and example of hereditary resemblance) leaving behind a trail of unanswered questions and a family forever changed.

My father often expressed a poignant wish regarding my brother: ‘May someone come and inform me of his passing, so I can perform his last rites.’ Tragically, my father’s life was cut short, and he passed away in November 1995. His dreams and aspirations remained unfulfilled. My mother had preceded him in death, passing away a year earlier, in october 1994.

The Many Faces of Disappearance

The Disappearance of Millions: A Psychological, Social, and Familial Perspective

Every year, millions of people across the globe go missing without a trace. These individuals, ranging from children to adults, vanish under circumstances that often remain unexplained for years, if not forever. The phenomenon of missing persons is not merely a statistical anomaly but a deeply complex issue rooted in psychological, social, and familial factors. Understanding the reasons behind these disappearances requires a multidimensional approach, as the causes are often intertwined with mental health, societal pressures, and family dynamics.

Psychological Factors

One of the primary reasons people go missing is psychological distress. Mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia can drive individuals to abandon their lives abruptly. For some, the weight of unresolved trauma or the inability to cope with life’s challenges becomes unbearable, leading them to disappear as a means of escape. In cases of dissociative fugue, a rare psychological condition, individuals may suddenly lose their sense of identity and travel far from home, often without any recollection of their past. Additionally, suicidal tendencies can lead to intentional disappearances, as individuals may choose to vanish rather than face their struggles openly.

Social Structures and Pressures

Societal structures and pressures also play a significant role in disappearances. In many cultures, rigid social expectations regarding success, gender roles, and familial responsibilities can create an environment of intense stress. For instance, young adults facing academic or professional failure may feel compelled to disappear to avoid shame or judgment. Similarly, women in patriarchal societies may flee from abusive marriages or oppressive family structures, often leaving behind no trace to avoid being found. Economic hardships, particularly in marginalized communities, can also force individuals to migrate or vanish in search of better opportunities, sometimes falling victim to human trafficking or exploitation.

Family Dynamics and Pressures

Family pressure is another critical factor contributing to disappearances. In some cases, individuals may feel trapped by familial expectations, such as forced marriages, financial obligations, or cultural norms. Children and teenagers, in particular, may run away from home due to abusive environments, neglect, or the desire for independence. LGBTQ+ individuals, especially in conservative households, may disappear to escape familial rejection or violence. The emotional toll of such pressures can lead to impulsive decisions to leave without warning, leaving families devastated and searching for answers.

The Aftermath and Societal Response

The disappearance of a loved one leaves an indelible mark on families and communities. The uncertainty and lack of closure can lead to prolonged grief, guilt, and psychological trauma for those left behind. Unfortunately, societal responses to missing persons cases are often inadequate. Law enforcement agencies may lack the resources or motivation to investigate thoroughly, especially in cases involving marginalized groups. Furthermore, the stigma surrounding mental health and family issues can discourage families from seeking help or reporting disappearances promptly.

Conclusion

The issue of missing persons is a poignant reminder of the fragility of human life and the complexities of modern society. Psychological distress, societal pressures, and family dynamics often converge to create circumstances where individuals feel compelled to vanish. Addressing this issue requires a compassionate and holistic approach, including better mental health support, societal reforms to reduce pressure on vulnerable groups, and stronger systems for tracking and investigating missing persons. By understanding the root causes and providing adequate support, we can hope to reduce the number of disappearances and bring solace to those left behind.

Reference : https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/36k-of-3l-kids-who-went-missing-since-20-untraced-govt/articleshow/118261121.cms