In a strong and progressive ruling, the Allahabad High Court has clearly stated that live in relationships between consenting adults are not illegal under Indian law. More importantly, the court has said that it is the responsibility of the state to protect such couples if they face threats or harassment.

The judgment came in response to petitions filed by adult women who were living in live in relationships and were facing opposition, intimidation, and threats from their families and local communities. Despite being adults and acting of their own free will, these women were denied safety and dignity.

The court made it clear that once a person attains adulthood, they have the constitutional right to decide where they live and with whom. This right flows directly from Article 21 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty.

Social Morality Cannot Override Fundamental Rights

One of the most important aspects of the ruling is the court’s clear rejection of social morality as a ground to deny protection. The court observed that personal choices made by adults cannot be judged through the lens of social approval or cultural discomfort.

For years, live in couples have been treated as lawbreakers even though no law criminalises consensual cohabitation. Police have often refused protection, citing social pressure or family objections. This judgment shuts that door firmly.

The court stated that if a couple is living peacefully and has not committed any offence, the state has no authority to interfere with their personal lives. Protection cannot be denied simply because a relationship does not fit traditional norms.

What This Judgment Changes on the Ground

The ruling places a direct responsibility on law enforcement agencies. Police officials have been directed to provide protection to live in couples if their safety is threatened. This removes ambiguity and makes it clear that personal bias or societal pressure cannot influence police action.

For couples in smaller towns and conservative regions, this decision is especially important. Many have faced eviction, violence, and social boycott. Some have even feared for their lives. The judgment recognises this reality and responds with constitutional clarity.

The court also clarified that this protection applies only to consenting adults. It reaffirmed that a person who is already legally married cannot enter into a live in relationship unless the marriage has been lawfully dissolved. This ensures that legal obligations under marriage are respected while protecting personal liberty where the law allows it.

Why This Matters for India

This ruling goes beyond live in relationships. It reinforces a broader principle that individual freedom cannot be sacrificed at the altar of social conformity. It reminds institutions that their duty is to the Constitution, not to social pressure.

India has changed, but its institutions have often lagged behind social reality. Relationships outside marriage exist across cities, towns, and communities. Ignoring them or treating them as illegal only pushes people into danger.

By affirming protection, the court has acknowledged that safety, dignity, and autonomy belong to every adult citizen, regardless of how society views their personal choices.

The Allahabad High Court’s decision is a strong reminder that law exists to protect people, not police morality. Live in relationships are not illegal, and adults choosing them are not criminals. When society fails to accept change, the Constitution must step in. This judgment does exactly that, firmly and unapologetically.