In a groundbreaking decision, the Rajasthan High Court has ordered the creation of a web portal for the registration of live-in relationships, a move aimed at providing legal clarity and protection for couples cohabiting without marriage. Justice Annop Jumar Dhand presided over the case, which arose from multiple petitions filed by live-in couples seeking legal protection.
During the proceedings, Justice Dhand highlighted the growing number of live-in couples facing societal and familial opposition, leading them to seek refuge through legal petitions under Article 226 of the Constitution. The bench recognized the unique challenges posed by live-in arrangements, particularly concerning the legal and social status of women in such relationships.
“The idea of a live-in relationship may seem appealing, but it comes with numerous and complex challenges,” Justice Dhand noted. He further emphasized the lack of social sanctity and approval for women in these relationships, which often places them in precarious situations.
To address these issues, the court decreed that all live-in relationships should be registered with a competent authority or tribunal. This interim measure will remain in place until the government enacts specific legislation to regulate such relationships comprehensively.
Justice Dhand outlined the establishment of competent authorities in each district to oversee the registration process and handle grievances related to live-in relationships, including those involving children born from these unions.
Furthermore, the court has instructed that the details of this order be communicated to the chief secretary and the principal secretary of the department of law and justice, as well as to the secretary of the department of justice and social welfare in New Delhi. These officials are tasked with ensuring compliance and reporting back to the court by March 1, 2025, on the progress made.
In a significant move, Justice Dhand has also referred the matter to a larger bench to deliberate on whether married individuals in live-in relationships, without legally dissolving their marriages, are eligible to seek protection orders from the court.
