In a landmark ruling, the Madhya Pradesh High Court has set a significant precedent by acknowledging the rights of women in live-in relationships. The court’s unique order states that a woman who has lived with a man for a substantial period is entitled to maintenance upon separation, even if they were not legally married.
This ruling stems from a case where a petitioner contested a trial court’s decision, which mandated him to provide a monthly allowance of ₹1,500 to a woman with whom he had been in a live-in relationship. The High Court’s decision reflects a progressive approach towards recognizing and protecting the rights of women in such partnerships.
The judges emphasized that maintenance cannot be denied if there is evidence of cohabitation between the couple. They referred to the trial court’s findings that established the couple’s relationship as akin to that of husband and wife. Furthermore, the presence of a child born within the relationship further solidified the woman’s right to maintenance.
This significant legal development reflects the evolving landscape surrounding live-in relationships in India. It marks a departure from traditional norms and signifies a growing recognition of the rights and vulnerabilities of women in such arrangements.
The Madhya Pradesh High Court’s ruling is in line with ongoing efforts in other states to provide a legal framework for live-in relationships. In February, Uttarakhand introduced a uniform civil code that includes provisions for registering live-in relationships. This move aims to regulate various aspects such as marriage, divorce, property rights, and inheritance laws for all citizens, highlighting the changing societal dynamics and legal protections afforded to individuals in non-traditional relationships.
Sources By Agencies
