Mumbai: Yash Raj Films (YRF) has issued an official clarification after being accused of sensationalising missing persons data as part of a promotional campaign for Rani Mukerji-starrer ‘Mardaani 3’.
The actress recently returned to the big screen as fierce cop Shivani Shivaji Roy in the third instalment of the ‘Mardaani’ franchise.
In the film, her character races against time to investigate the disappearance of 93 young girls who go missing under mysterious circumstances within three months.
However, controversy erupted during the film’s opening week after a PTI report citing Delhi Police data went viral on social media.
The report claimed that 807 people went missing in Delhi in the first half of January, triggering widespread concern and panic online.
On Monday morning, Delhi Police clarified that the sudden spike in posts highlighting missing persons data was being amplified through paid promotion, shifting public attention towards ‘Mardaani 3’.
The development led to speculation that the film’s marketing campaign may have played a role in pushing the narrative.
“After following a few leads, we discovered that the hype around the surge in missing girls in Delhi is being pushed through paid promotion. Creating panic for monetary gains won’t be tolerated, and we’ll take strict action against such individuals,” Delhi Police said on X.
After following a few leads, we discovered that the hype around the surge in missing girls in Delhi is being pushed through paid promotion. Creating panic for monetary gains won’t be tolerated, and we’ll take strict action against such individuals.
— Delhi Police (@DelhiPolice) February 6, 2026
YRF then issued an official statement denying any involvement.
“Yash Raj Films is a 50-year-old company founded on the core principles of being highly ethical and transparent. We strongly deny the accusations floating on social media that Mardaani 3’s promotional campaign has deliberately sensationalised a sensitive issue like this. We have immense trust in our authorities, who will share all facts and truths in due course of time,” YRF spokesperson said.
Earlier, urging citizens not to fall prey to misinformation, Delhi Police shared a statement on social media which read: “Recent public discourse has raised concerns about the welfare of children in Delhi. We appeal to citizens not to believe rumours regarding a sudden spurt in missing children cases. Rumour mongers misrepresenting data and creating panic will face strict legal action.”
Meanwhile, ‘Mardaani 3’ has been receiving positive reviews from the audience and critics alike.
The film has crossed Rs 25-crore mark at the box office within its first week of release.
