The Delhi High Court directed the police to provide protection to a young live-in couple who claimed they were facing threats from the woman’s father.
Justice Saurabh Banerjee made it clear that two consenting adults have the right to live together without interference, even if they are not legally married. The court was hearing a petition filed under Article 226 of the Constitution seeking protection of life and liberty.
Background of the Case
The petitioners, both born in 2006 and 2007, told the court they are majors and have been in a relationship since 2024. They are currently living together and executed a live-in relationship agreement on February 17, 2026, to formally record their decision.
Their counsel submitted that the woman’s father was unhappy with the arrangement and had been threatening them with harm. The couple said they feared for their safety and approached the court seeking immediate protection.
The plea stressed that their fundamental rights especially the right to life and personal liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution were under threat.
Court’s Observations
After issuing notice, the court noted that both individuals were adults and fully capable of making their own choices.
Justice Banerjee observed that,
“Since both petitioners are consenting adults, they have all rights to choose and reside with their respective partner as per their individual choice, with no interference from anyone”
The judge referred to the Supreme Court’s ruling in Nandakumar vs State of Kerala, which held that even if a couple is not legally married, two adults have the right to live together. The order also mentioned that live-in relationships have legal recognition, including under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
Further reliance was placed on Shafin Jahan vs Asokan K.M., where the Supreme Court ruled that societal morals or family objections cannot override an individual’s freedom to choose a partner. Curtailing such freedom, the apex court had said, amounts to taking away a person’s identity.
Justice Banerjee noted that while the couple was not married, their live-in relationship was “akin to marriage, though not legally,” and protected by constitutional guarantees under Articles 19 and 21.
He firmly stated that no one including parents has the authority to threaten or interfere with the couple’s life and liberty simply because they disapprove of the relationship.
Allowing the petition, the court directed that the couple be given protection as and when required. They were permitted to contact the Station House Officer (SHO) of Police Station Daryaganj or the concerned beat constable for assistance.
The court clarified that if the couple shifts residence to another police station’s jurisdiction, they must inform the concerned SHO within three days, providing their complete address
The order concluded by directing the local police to extend necessary protection in accordance with law. With these directions, the petition was disposed of.
Case Title: Kartik & Anr. vs. State of NCT of Delhi & Ors.
Case Number: W.P. (CRL) 665/2026
Date of Order: February 24, 2026
