The Madhya Pradesh High Court has directed police authorities in Indore to provide protection to a young couple living together after they approached the court claiming apprehension of interference and possible harm from family members.
Justice Rajesh Kumar Gupta passed the order on June 3, 2026, while hearing a writ petition filed by Ridham Verma and another petitioner seeking protection from the authorities.
Background of the Case
The petitioners, aged 20 and 26 years, informed the court that they were residing together against the wishes of their families. They alleged that they feared adverse action from the parents of the woman petitioner and sought directions for police protection.
The plea also requested that no false criminal case be registered against the male petitioner and that authorities ensure the couple's safety.
Counsel for the petitioners relied on the Supreme Court's decision in Nandakumar v. State of Kerala, arguing that two consenting adults have the right to live together even if they are not married.
During the hearing, the State opposed the plea, contending that the woman petitioner was only 20 years old and had not attained the age prescribed for marriage. It was also argued that granting such protection would not be in the larger interest of society.
However, the High Court referred to the Supreme Court's observations recognizing the right of major individuals to live together outside marriage.
Justice Gupta observed that since the woman was a major, her personal choice deserved legal protection. The court noted,
“Since she is a major, she is entitled to reside as per her own will, and if she so decides, her choice needs to be protected from external forces.”
Allowing the petition, the High Court directed the concerned authorities to provide necessary protection to the couple. The court also ordered that the concerned police officer share contact details with the petitioners so that assistance could be sought in any emergency.
A copy of the order was directed to be communicated to the concerned police authorities for prompt compliance. With these directions, the petition was disposed of.
Case Details:
Case Title: Ridham Verma & Others v. State of Madhya Pradesh & Others
Case Number: Writ Petition No. 19028 of 2026
Judge: Justice Rajesh Kumar Gupta
Decision Date: June 3, 2026
