Introduction:

The Madhya Pradesh High Court, sitting at the Indore Bench, recently granted protection to a young live-in couple, both aged 19 years, against potential interference from the girl’s parents. While acknowledging the petitioners’ status as adults and affirming their right to live together, the Court also expressed concerns about the trend of youngsters entering into relationships and leaving their families at an early age.

Arguments of Both Sides:

The petitioners sought protection against potential action from the girl’s parents, as they were residing together against their families’ wishes. The government advocate opposed the petition, citing the boy’s young age and arguing that granting protection would not be in the larger interest of society and could promote promiscuity.

Court’s Judgment:

The High Court, led by Justice Subodh Abhyankar, granted protection to the young couple, emphasizing their status as adults and their right to make choices. However, the Court also cautioned against the consequences of early relationships, highlighting the challenges of earning a livelihood without proper education and societal acceptance. Drawing from a Supreme Court precedent, the Court affirmed the couple’s right to live together even outside of wedlock, based on their status as adults. Ultimately, the Court held that the petitioner, although young, was entitled to reside according to his own will, and his choice needed protection from external forces.