Shreya Nayak, BBA-LLB, Amity Law School, Jaipur
ABSTRACT
Live-in relationships have become increasingly popular in India in recent years, challenging the traditional views of marriage and relationships. However, the legal recognition and protection of women in such relationships has been a controversial issue, with many arguing that women in live-in relationships do not have the same rights and protections as married women.
This research paper provides an in-depth analysis of the availability of maintenance for women in live-in relationships under the Indian legal system and Constitution. It explores the historical and cultural context of live-in relationships in India, the legal recognition of live-in relationships as a form of marriage under Hindu law, and the evolution of women's rights in such relationships.
The paper delves into the legal provisions and judicial precedents surrounding the rights of women in live-in relationships, including their right to maintenance, protection from domestic violence, and inheritance rights. It also examines the evolution of the law surrounding maintenance for women in India, including the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2005, and the recommendation by the Law Commission of India for a specific law governing live-in relationships.
Furthermore, the research paper highlights the role of various individuals and organizations in advocating for the rights of women in live-in relationships, such as Justice V.R. Krishna Iyer, the National Commission for Women, Lawyers Collective, and women's rights activists such as Flavia Agnes, Kavita Krishnan, and Vrinda Grover.
