Overview
- Justice S. Srimathy described live-in relationships as a cultural shock to Indian society even as they have become widespread.
- The court suggested recognising live-in arrangements on the lines of Gandharva (love) marriages so women receive rights akin to a wife.
- Hearing a case alleging a sexual relationship on a false promise of marriage, the bench found prima facie evidence and refused anticipatory bail.
- Police were directed to add Section 69 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which targets deceitful promises of marriage used to obtain sexual intercourse.
- The order noted that current laws protect minors and married or divorced women but leave adult women in consensual cohabitation vulnerable.