In a significant observation while granting bail in a sexual exploitation case, the Allahabad High Court has remarked that the concept of live-in relationships runs contrary to the values traditionally upheld by India’s middle-class society. The single-judge bench of Justice Siddharth made the comments while hearing a bail plea filed by one Shane Alam, accused of sexually exploiting a woman under the false promise of marriage.
The Court expressed its concern over the rising number of such cases and stated that the judiciary is becoming increasingly burdened by disputes arising out of live-in arrangements. “After the Supreme Court’s recognition of live-in relationships as legally valid, the courts are now getting overwhelmed by such cases,” the Court noted.
Justice Siddharth granted bail to the applicant considering that he had been in judicial custody since February 25 and had no prior criminal history. The Court also took into account the accused’s nature and the congested conditions in jails while allowing the bail plea.
Allegations Against the Petitioner
The bail application was filed in connection with a case registered under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The primary allegation is that the petitioner had physical relations with the complainant on the false assurance of marriage but later refused to marry her.
Court’s Observations on Live-In Relationships
While the complainant’s counsel argued that the accused had exploited the victim, the Court observed that the idea of live-in relationships has significantly attracted the younger generation. However, it added, “Its adverse consequences are also becoming increasingly evident.”
The Court further remarked that such disputes often arise not at the inception of the relationship but later, especially when there are disagreements about marriage, at which point parties often approach the police or the courts. “This is inappropriate,” the bench said.
