Married man’s live-in relationship with consenting adult not an offence: Allahabad HC

The Allahabad High Court has reportedly observed that a married man’s live-in relationship with a consenting adult is not an offence, underlining that social morality cannot override the court’s duty to protect citizens’ rights.

The bench observed while hearing a plea filed by a couple seeking protection from alleged threats issued by the woman’s family.

The court reportedly said there was no provision in law under which a married man living with a consenting adult in a live-in relationship could be prosecuted. It emphasised that ‘morality and legality’ must be kept separate while adjudicating such matters.

The court noted that the woman had already approached the Superintendent of Police in Shahjahanpur, stating that she was an adult and living with the man of her own free will.

She also alleged that her family members were opposed to the relationship and had issued threats, raising apprehensions of an honour-based crime.

The bench expressed concern that no action appeared to have been taken on her complaint and reiterated that it was the duty of the police to ensure protection of two consenting adults.

As per reports, referring to the Supreme Court’s ruling in Shakti Vahini v. Union of India, the court said specific obligations had been placed on law enforcement authorities, particularly the Superintendent of Police, to prevent honour-related violence.