In a significant order reinforcing personal liberty, the Delhi High Court has granted police protection to two consenting adults living in a live-in relationship, observing that their marital status cannot be a ground to deny constitutional protection.
Background of the Case
The case, Meena Akhilesh Yadav & Anr. vs State Govt of NCT of Delhi & Ors., arose from a writ petition filed under Article 226 of the Constitution along with provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.
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The petitioners approached the court seeking protection against alleged threats from the family members and husband of petitioner no.1. According to submissions, both individuals are adults and had voluntarily entered into a live-in relationship in Hyderabad on 25 February 2026.
Counsel for the petitioners stated that petitioner no.1 had faced prolonged alleged harassment in her marriage since 2016, following which she chose to live with petitioner no.2. It was further submitted that the couple faced continued intimidation and threats, prompting them to relocate to Delhi in March 2026.
Despite making representations to authorities, no action was taken, leading them to seek court intervention.
Justice Saurabh Banerjee, while hearing the matter on 6 April 2026, emphasized that constitutional protections are available to all citizens irrespective of their personal relationships.
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The Court observed that the petitioners, being consenting adults, are entitled to protection of their fundamental rights.
“The status of the citizens, whether they are (un)married or are in a live-in relationship, is not a germane factor,” the bench noted, underlining that the right to life and personal liberty must be safeguarded.
The Court also clarified that it was not examining the legality of the Memorandum of Understanding executed between the parties but focused solely on their right to safety.
The Additional Standing Counsel for the State accepted notice and informed the Court that the petitioners’ location falls under the jurisdiction of Police Station Lodhi Colony. Contact details of local police officials had already been shared with them.
It was also submitted that the Delhi Police remains committed to ensuring the safety of citizens.
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Allowing the petition, the Court directed that the petitioners may approach the Station House Officer (SHO), Beat Constable, or Duty Officer of the concerned police station whenever required.
The Court further directed that police authorities shall take all necessary steps to provide adequate assistance and protection to the petitioners, as and when needed, in accordance with law.
Additionally, if the petitioners shift residence to another jurisdiction, they must inform the concerned SHO within three days, following which protection measures would continue.
The petition was disposed of with these directions.
Case Details
Case Title: Meena Akhilesh Yadav & Anr. vs State Govt of NCT of Delhi & Ors.
Case Number: W.P.(CRL) 1091/2026
Judge: Justice Saurabh Banerjee
Decision Date: 06 April 2026
