In India, traditional values have a deep influence on family and society. Marriage is considered a sacred bond, and people who live together without marriage are often ostracized by society. In this context, many people start wondering whether live-in relationships are legally valid in India. Recently, the Allahabad High Court in an important judgment clarified that live-in relationships are not illegal. The court said that if both the partners are adults and want to live together of their own free will, then no person or family has the right to stop them. This judgment not only protected the rights of couples in a live-in relationship, but also made it clear that the right to life and personal liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution applies to everyone, whether married or unmarried.
In this case, couples living in a live-in relationship had filed 12 petitions for security and peaceful life. During the hearing, the court said that live-in relationships are not illegal. Whether it is accepted in the society or not, it cannot be considered a crime. If an adult is living with his/her partner willingly, no family member or person can disturb them. It is the duty of the state to ensure the safety of such citizens.
The petitioners have the right to life and personal liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution. This right is not affected by marriage or not. Women in live-in relationships can avail protection, maintenance and other benefits under the Domestic Violence Act, 2005. The court accepted all the petitions and directed that if anyone’s life is in danger, the concerned police officer will provide them immediate protection.
Live-in relationship is a relationship in which two adults live together without marriage. It is not legally registered, and does not require a divorce to end it. This lifestyle provides freedom from legal restrictions such as marriage.
Courts consider live-in relationships to be similar to marriage under certain circumstances, giving certain rights to the individuals involved. Several conditions must be met for this to happen. For example, the couple must have lived together for months or years; Living together for a few days or weeks is not enough. Couples should present their relationship as a permanent partnership to friends, relatives and society. Both persons must be adults. There should also be emotional and close support, sharing of resources, financial support, joint bank account etc. They should also share household responsibilities. Furthermore, both of them should have a clear intention and commitment towards the relationship. Having children together shows the stability and seriousness of the relationship.
