Punjab and Haryana High Court Extends Protection to Live-in Couple

Court Affirms Right to Life and Liberty Regardless of Legality of Relationship

In a significant ruling, the Punjab and Haryana High Court, presided by Justice Rupinderjit Chahal, has reinforced the constitutional right to life and liberty under Article 21, extending protection to individuals in live-in relationships. The judgment was delivered on a petition filed by Ramna and Vishal Nath, who sought protection from threats posed by private respondents due to their live-in relationship.

The petitioners, Ramna and Vishal Nath, approached the High Court after facing threats from family members unhappy with their relationship. Ramna, already married to another individual, and Vishal Nath, who is not of marriageable age, have been living together, prompting them to seek judicial intervention for their safety.

Justice Chahal highlighted that the right to life and liberty, enshrined in the Constitution, includes the right of individuals to live with a person of their choice, irrespective of the legality of their relationship. The court emphasized that protection should be granted without prejudice to any pending criminal proceedings or legal issues, focusing solely on the safeguarding of life and liberty from threats by private parties.

In her judgment, Justice Chahal referenced previous cases, including the Division Bench ruling in "Ishrat Bano v. State of Punjab," to reinforce the stance that protection of life and liberty is paramount, even in situations where the relationship's legality might be questioned or criminal cases are registered against the parties. The court maintained that legal proceedings should not impede the provision of protection to individuals fearing for their safety due to personal relationships.

The court directed the Senior Superintendent of Police, Bathinda, to assess the threat perception to the petitioners based on their representation dated December 9, 2025, and take appropriate legal actions to ensure their safety. The judgment underscored that any criminal case against the petitioners should proceed independently, without affecting their right to protection.

This decision marks a pivotal moment in acknowledging and protecting personal freedoms, especially for individuals in non-traditional relationships, emphasizing the judiciary’s role in upholding constitutional rights against societal and familial pressures.

Bottom Line:

Protection of life and liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution of India extends to individuals in live-in relationships, irrespective of the legality of their relationship, and courts are bound to ensure such protection without prejudice to any pending criminal proceedings or legal issues.

Statutory provision(s): Article 21 of the Constitution of India

Ramna v. State of Punjab, (Punjab And Haryana) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2825523