The Uttarakhand High Court has expressed concern over the financial security of a young inter-religious couple who approached the court seeking protection, and has directed the boy’s father to assure support for their livelihood.
The couple, a Hindu boy and a Muslim girl from Udham Singh Nagar district, had filed a petition before the High Court stating that they intend to marry but face opposition from the girl’s family. Earlier, the court had granted them protection.
When the matter came up for final hearing on Thursday, a division bench comprising Chief Justice G. Narendra and Justice Subhash Upadhyay inquired about the youth’s educational background and means of income.
The youth, a resident of Sitarganj, informed the bench that he works as a DJ at marriage ceremonies and also drives vehicles. He further submitted that his father owns some land in Sitarganj. He has studied up to high school, while the girl has completed her education till Class 12.
Taking note of their young age and limited means of livelihood, the bench questioned how the couple would sustain themselves financially.
Advocate Kaushal Shah Jagati, representing the couple, told the court that in light of this concern, the bench directed the boy’s father to appear on Monday and provide an assurance that he will extend financial support to the couple.
The matter will now be heard after the father’s appearance before the court.
