Institution of Marriage Under Threat: Allahabad High Court Warns Against Live-In Relationships
The Allahabad High Court has issued a warning against the growing trend of live-in relationships, expressing concerns over the impact it could have on the institution of marriage in India. Justice Siddharth, while granting bail to a young man accused of rape by his live-in partner, emphasized that the security and stability offered by marriage cannot be expected in such arrangements.
Citing a systematic design to destroy the institution of marriage in India, Justice Siddharth condemned the concept of changing partners every season, stating that it goes against the idea of a stable and healthy society. He further expressed his worry that infidelity in marriage and the promotion of live-in relationships as signs of progress were attracting the youth to this philosophy.
The court’s observations came in response to a case involving a young man from Saharanpur and his 19-year-old live-in partner, who became pregnant during their relationship. The woman filed a rape case against the man after he allegedly broke his promise to marry her. The accused was subsequently arrested on April 18.
Justice Siddharth expressed concern about the rising trend of live-in relationships in India, stating that it could create significant problems in the future if it continues to gain prominence. He suggested that live-in relationships should only be considered normal once the institution of marriage becomes obsolete, like in some developed countries where it has become a challenge to protect this institution.
The court’s stance reflects a broader debate surrounding the stability and sanctity of marriage in the face of changing social norms. While proponents of live-in relationships argue that they provide a more flexible and egalitarian alternative, critics raise concerns about the erosion of traditional values and the potential consequences for children raised in such arrangements.
It is important to note that the court’s observations do not diminish the severity of the rape accusation in the present case. The court’s warning against live-in relationships should not be conflated with a justification for any form of abuse or violence within these relationships.
As the debate continues, it remains essential to have a balanced understanding of the different perspectives surrounding live-in relationships and the institution of marriage. The court’s cautionary remarks call for a deeper examination of societal values and their impact on the fabric of relationships in India.
As society undergoes rapid transformations, it becomes crucial to foster open discussions on issues like live-in relationships and marriage to ensure the well-being and stability of individuals and families. Striking a balance between traditional values and evolving notions of relationships will be crucial as India navigates these changing dynamics.
