Allahabad High Court Criticises Seasonal Changing Of Living-In Partners

In a recent ruling, the Allahabad High Court has raised significant concerns about the impact of live-in relationships on the institution of marriage in India. The court made these observations while granting bail to a man accused of raping his live-in partner. 

The court, after considering the arguments presented, reflects on the broader societal context of live-in relationships. While hearing the matter the court pointed out: 

“On the face of it the relationship of live-in sounds very attractive and lures the youth but as the time passes and middle-class social morality/norms start staring in their face, such couples gradually, realize that their relationship has not social sanction and it cannot continue for life.” 

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The court emphasizes the importance of middle-class morality in a country like India, where the stability and progress of the nation depend on the size of the middle class. It argues that the institution of marriage provides security, social acceptance, and stability, which live-in relationships cannot offer. The court expresses concern about the impact of media, such as films and TV serials, on eroding the institution of marriage and promoting infidelity and free live-in relationships as signs of progress. 

The court raises critical questions about the future of live-in relationships in Indian society. It suggests that the absence of middle-class values and morality can lead to social, political, and ethical unrest and that the stability and progress of the nation rely on maintaining the institution of marriage. Adding to this court has cited: 

“Live-in-relationship shall only be considered as normal after the institution of marriage becomes obsolete in this country, like in many of the so-called developed countries where it has become a big problem for them to protect institution of marriage.” 

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The case that prompted these reflections involved Adnan, who was accused by his live-in partner of reneging on his promise to marry her. Adnan”s arrest in April was based on a complaint filed by a 19-year-old woman from Uttar Pradesh”s Saharanpur. The couple had lived together for a year, during which the woman became pregnant. When Adnan refused to marry her, she alleged that he had engaged in sexual relations with her under the false promise of marriage.