In a striking instance of how social media misinformation can impact legal proceedings, the Supreme Court of India on Friday (March 20, 2026) directed a runaway couple seeking protection from their families to approach the High Court, after they arrived at the apex court premises under the mistaken belief that they could get married and receive immediate safety from the Chief Justice of India.
The matter was brought to the attention of a Bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi after a lawyer discovered the young couple in the Supreme Court’s parking lot.
Social Media Misconceptions
The counsel representing the couple informed the Bench that the pair had traveled to the Supreme Court influenced by viral social media reels. According to the lawyer, the couple believed they could perform their marriage ceremony within the court premises and obtain an instant protection order directly from the Chief Justice of India.
The counsel emphasized that the couple is in genuine fear for their lives, alleging that their respective parents intended to “punish them severely” for their relationship. The lawyer further stated that she had escorted the couple to the nearby Tilak Marg Police Station for assistance; however, she alleged that instead of providing protection, the police attempted to detain the duo.
The Question of Jurisdiction
Responding to the mention, Chief Justice Surya Kant questioned the increasing tendency of litigants to bypass the High Courts in such matters.
“Why this step-motherly treatment to Article 226 jurisdiction?” the CJI asked, noting that High Courts are fully empowered and better positioned to handle such protection pleas.
Drawing from his own experience, the CJI remarked that during his tenure as a judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, he had handled numerous similar cases. He clarified that while the Supreme Court remains an option, it should only be approached if the High Court fails to provide the necessary relief.
Directions of the Court
The Bench refused to entertain the plea directly but ensured the couple’s safety by asking the lawyer to move the Delhi High Court immediately. To facilitate a swift hearing, the Supreme Court indicated it would communicate with the Registrar (Judicial) of the concerned High Court to ensure the matter receives appropriate consideration.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the gap between “viral” legal advice found on digital platforms and the actual procedural requirements of the Indian judicial system.
