The Madras High Court has described live-in relationships as a "cultural shock." Justice S. Srimathi said that women in such relationships should be protected by giving them the status of a wife ... read more

The Madras High Court has expressed concern over the growing trend of live-in relationships. Calling it a cultural setback, the court said that women in such relationships should be given the status of a wife and protected.

In a judgment, Justice S. Srimathi said, "Live-in relationships are a cultural shock to Indian society, but they are happening on a large scale everywhere. Girls think they are modern and decide to live in live-in relationships. But after some time, they realise that this relationship does not provide any security like marriage."

'Women in live-in relationships should be given the status of wife'

The judge further said that women in live-in relationships should be given the status of wife and protection so that women living in live-in relationships can get rights as wives even if the relationship is going through a difficult phase.

Noting that there is no legal protection for women in live-in relationships, the judge said that a section of women is falling prey to the weaknesses of this concept. He further said, "They also face mental trauma due to live-in relationships."

On which issue did the court comment?

The court made these observations while rejecting the anticipatory bail plea of ​​a man accused of deceiving a woman by promising to marry her. During the hearing, the man claimed that he abandoned the girl because she was of "bad character."

The judge said, "Boys suddenly start making allegations about the character of girls. While in live-in relationships, boys consider themselves modern, they question the character of girls for having a live-in relationship." The judge added, "If marriage is not possible, men will have to face the wrath of legal provisions."

The court said that now women are protected only under Section 69 of the CrPC (promising marriage with a woman with the intention of having sexual intercourse with her and not fulfilling the same) and men will have to face the wrath of Section 69 of the CrPC.

 PC:Jagran