Family Disapproval Can't Curtail Autonomy Of Consenting Adults To Choose Life Partners: Delhi High Court

The Delhi High Court has recently ruled that family disapproval cannot curtail the autonomy of two consenting adults to choose life partners. “The right of two consenting adults to choose each other as life partners and to live together in peace is a facet of their personal liberty, privacy, and dignity protected under Article 21. Family disapproval cannot curtail that autonomy,” Justice Sanjeev Narula said. The Court granted police protection to a couple who had lawfully solemnised their marriage but apprehended threats from their family members. It was their case that the legal guardian and mother of the woman expressed strong objection to their relationship and had allegedly issued repeated threats of physical harm, particularly targeting her.As per their case, due to persistent hostility and fearing for her safety, the woman left her parental home after duly informing her mother of her intention to marry her partner. The Court was informed that the woman confirmed that she had voluntarily married and had left her parental home of her own accord. The Delhi Police said that after the said confirmation, the missing person inquiry was duly closed, and the same was communicated to the woman's mother. “Thus, in view of the status report closing the “missing” entry and noting the Petitioners' voluntary marriage, no further directions are necessary regarding this issue,” the Court said. It directed the Delhi Police to ensure that adequate protection is given to the couple. The SHO of the concerned police station is directed to designate a beat officer. “Upon any complaint of threat, the police shall promptly enter a DD entry and extend immediate assistance. For co- ordination, counsel for the Petitioners shall share the Petitioners' current place of residence and contact details with the Investigating Officer, today itself,” the Court said disposing of the plea.Title: PRINCE TYAGI AND ANR v. STATE OF NCT OF DELHI AND ORSCitation: 2025 LiveLaw (Del) 967Click here to read order

Family Disapproval Can't Curtail Autonomy Of Consenting Adults To Choose Life Partners: Delhi High Court

Nupur Thapliyal

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