In a significant legal development, a court has recognized the long-term relationship between Dhananjay and Karuna as one that mirrors the “nature of marriage”, granting Karuna the right to seek relief under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act. The judgment is being seen as a progressive step toward acknowledging the rights of women in live-in relationships.
The court, while examining the circumstances of the case, observed that Karuna and Dhananjay had been living together for an extended period in a manner consistent with a married couple. They shared a household, socialized together as partners, and presented themselves publicly as husband and wife. These facts led the court to conclude that their bond was not merely casual or transactional, but stable and committed.
The court ruled that such relationships, though not legally registered as marriage, fall under the category of a “relationship in the nature of marriage”, a term recognized under Section 2(f) of the Domestic Violence Act. As a result, Karuna is legally entitled to seek protection, maintenance, and other reliefs under the law, similar to that of a legally wedded spouse.
This ruling is crucial as it reinforces that women in non-traditional domestic arrangements are also entitled to protection from abuse, exploitation, or abandonment. The court also warned that the legal system must evolve to reflect changing social realities and ensure justice to all individuals regardless of the formal status of their relationships.
Legal experts have welcomed the judgment, stating that it upholds the spirit of inclusivity and fairness enshrined in Indian law. They emphasize that courts are increasingly recognizing the complexities of modern relationships and offering remedies to those in vulnerable positions.
The verdict sets a precedent for future cases involving live-in relationships and rights of women seeking justice outside conventional marital frameworks.
