Netflix’s Delhi Crime returns with its third season — and once again, it doesn’t disappoint. With Shefali Shah reprising her iconic role as DSP Vartika Chaturvedi, Delhi Crime: Season 3 dives deep into the dark underbelly of human trafficking, blending emotion, realism, and relentless investigation. The show, directed by Tanuj Chopra, keeps the audience glued from the first scene in Assam to the nail-biting finale in Delhi.
Story: A Battle Against Shadows
Delhi Crime: Season 3 follows DSP Vartika Chaturvedi, now posted in Silchar, Assam. Her routine posting takes a dark turn when she intercepts a truck carrying several trafficked girls headed to Delhi. Meanwhile, in the capital, ACP Neeti Singh (Rasika Dugal) handles the shocking case of a severely injured two-year-old girl, Noor. A young girl, Khushi, brings the child to AIIMS and vanishes — setting off an investigation that links back to the trafficking ring.
As Vartika returns to Delhi, the team uncovers a web of deceit led by a mysterious woman known only as Badi Didi (Huma Qureshi). From Assam to Haryana and the heart of Delhi, the chase exposes a horrifying network that preys on the vulnerable — and the lengths the police go to deliver justice.
Direction and Screenplay: Sharp, Sensible, and Stirring
Tanuj Chopra’s direction is confident and balanced. The creators — Tanuj Chopra, Mayank Tewari, Anu Singh Choudhary, Shubra Swarup, Apoorva Bakshi, and Michael Hogan — deserve credit for maintaining the raw, investigative soul of the series.
The screenplay is pacy, with almost every scene driving the story forward. From the emotional turmoil of the cops to the moral grey zones they navigate, Delhi Crime 3 portrays the realities of law enforcement with authenticity. The writers ensure the show remains socially relevant while never resorting to melodrama.
Performances: Shefali Shah Shines, Huma Qureshi Stuns
Once again, Shefali Shah delivers an outstanding performance. Her portrayal of Vartika is powerful yet deeply human — a woman haunted by the crimes she fights. Rasika Dugal as Neeti Singh brings empathy and grit, balancing professionalism with compassion.
Huma Qureshi’s portrayal of the elusive Badi Didi is chilling and layered — one of the strongest antagonists seen in Indian streaming content. Supporting actors like Rajesh Tailang, Anshumaan Pushkar, and Aditi Subedi add depth to the narrative.
Weak Points: Pacing and Character Gaps
Despite its brilliance, Delhi Crime: Season 3 does stumble in parts. The initial pacing feels uneven, and some subplots — like the sketch artist sequence — could have been explained better. The character of Khushi doesn’t quite fit the age profile her role demands, and the Rohtak investigation arc, while gripping, leaves certain logical gaps unaddressed.
Still, these minor flaws don’t take away from the show’s emotional intensity and message-driven storytelling.
Verdict: A Disturbing Yet Important Watch
Delhi Crime Season 3 successfully carries forward the franchise’s legacy — hard-hitting, humane, and unforgettable. It highlights one of society’s darkest crimes without sensationalism. The season reminds us why Delhi Crime continues to be one of India’s most respected web series.
