Legal Recognition Of Live-In Relationships: A Step Towards Progressive Family Law?
- IJLLR Journal
- 7 minutes ago
- 1 min read
Diya Gour, Bennett University
ABSTRACT
This paper delves into the shifting legal perspectives on live-in relationships within the Indian context, evaluating how these partnerships are acknowledged under current family law provisions. Though Indian family law has long been rooted in the institution of marriage, more couples are now choosing to cohabit without formalizing their union, creating legal grey areas and societal challenges. The study closely reviews key court decisions that have extended limited legal safeguards to such arrangements, especially concerning issues like protection from domestic abuse, financial support, and inheritance. Noteworthy rulings including Indra Sarma v. V.K.V. Sarma, D. Velusamy v. D. Patchaiammal, and Chanmuniya v. Virendra Kumar Singh Kushwaha have contributed to expanding the interpretation of unions resembling marriage. Nonetheless, the absence of specific legal statutes, coupled with prevailing societal biases, continues to hinder the rights of individuals in these relationships. By examining global legislative models and emphasizing the need for comprehensive reform, this article supports the creation of a structured legal approach that affirms the legitimacy and rights of non-marital partnerships, thereby advancing a more progressive and balanced family law system in India.
