The court reiterates the constitutional right of adults to marry or live together without interference, safeguarding their life and liberty under Article 21.
The Allahabad High Court, on May 14, 2026, delivered a significant judgment in the case of Smt. Sidra Parveen and another versus the State of U.P., emphasizing the protection of life and liberty of individuals choosing their own life partners. The court underscored that the right to marry a person of one's choice is an integral part of Article 21 of the Constitution of India, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty.
The petitioners, Smt. Sidra Parveen and her partner, approached the court seeking protection against harassment from family members, particularly from the father of the petitioner no.1, who opposed their union. The couple, both adults, claimed to have solemnized their marriage of their own free will. However, the legality of their marriage was contested by the respondents, citing that the marriage took place via video conferencing while one of the petitioners was overseas.
Justice Vivek Kumar Singh, presiding over the case, noted that the primary issue at hand was the protection of the petitioners' fundamental rights rather than the validity of the marriage itself. The court asserted that the constitutional protection under Article 21 stands on a higher pedestal, and the apprehension of threats to the petitioners' life and liberty warranted judicial intervention.
Referring to precedents set by the Supreme Court, the judgment reiterated that the right to marry a person of one's choice cannot be overridden by societal or familial disapproval. The court emphasized that adults are entitled to exercise their choice without interference from the state, society, or family, and that such interference is a violation of fundamental rights.
The court directed the police authorities to ensure the safety of the petitioners and prevent any interference in their peaceful living. It also clarified that the judgment did not adjudicate the validity of the marriage but focused on safeguarding the petitioners' constitutional rights.
This judgment aligns with previous rulings by the Supreme Court, which have upheld the sanctity of individual choice in matters of marriage and personal relationships, reinforcing the right to privacy and personal autonomy as core aspects of constitutional liberty.
Bottom line:-
Protection of life and liberty of individuals choosing their own life partners is paramount under Article 21 of the Constitution. The validity of marriage/nikah is not a determinant for granting such protection.
Statutory provision(s): Article 21 of the Constitution of India, Indian Majority Act, various precedents by the Supreme Court of India including KS Puttaswamy v. Union of India, Shafin Jahan v. Asokan K.M., and others.
Smt. Sidra Parveen v. State of U.P., (Allahabad) : Law Finder Doc id # 2900118
