The Court observed that if a person chooses his/her partner and both are above 18, nobody, not even a family member, has the right to object or interfere in their life and the State is bound to protect the live-in couple.
Live-in relationships are not illegal: High Court
Allahabad: The Allahabad High Court (Single Judge) on Wednesday observed that while the concept of live-in relationship is not "illegal". Though it may not be acceptable to all, it cannot be said that such a relationship is "illegal" or that living together without the sanctity of marriage is a crime.
The CourtIt further stated that the right to life of an individual is of "paramount importance," irrespective of whether a couple is married or living together without the sanctity of marriage.
The High Court observed, "Once an adult individual chooses their partner, no other person, even a family member, has the right to object and interfere in their peaceful life. It is the duty of the State, as per the responsibilities cast upon it under the Constitution, to protect the life and liberty of every citizen."
The bench of Justice Vivek Kumar Singh allowed several writ petitions seeking police protection for couples in live-in relationships. The Court said that the State cannot refuse to protect the life and liberty of consenting adults living together.
The Court observed that if a person chooses his/her partner and both are above the age of 18, nobody, not even a family member, has the right to object or interfere in their life and the State, under the Constitution, is bound to protect the life and liberty of every citizen, said Justice Vivek Kumar Singh.
Justice Singh was hearing several petitions, seeking police protection to couples who are in live-in relationships.
(...being updated)
