Allahabad High Court Upholds Right Of Adult Same-Sex Couple To Live Together, Says Family Cannot Interfere
Lucknow: The Allahabad High Court has held that an adult has the right under Article 21 of the Constitution to choose a partner, exercise personal autonomy and live with a consenting partner. Family opposition, social disapproval or traditional beliefs cannot be used to interfere with such freedom, the court said. Court Hears Petition By Same-Sex Couple From Varanasi Justice Dr Gautam Chaudhary…
Lucknow: The Allahabad High Court ruled that adults possess the constitutional right to select a partner and cohabit with a consenting partner, without interference from family or societal opposition. In a recent hearing, the court addressed a petition filed by two adult women from Varanasi who were in a same-sex, live-in relationship.
The women, both unmarried and consenting adults, argued that their families and relatives were interfering with their peaceful life and raising concerns about their safety. The court heard statements from both women, who affirmed their adult status and capacity to understand the implications of their choice, stating that they lived together without fear or coercion and wished to continue their relationship.
While the state contended that same-sex relationships were not widely accepted by traditional society, the court clarified that the legality of same-sex marriage is a distinct issue from the right of consenting adults to cohabit. The court emphasized that the absence of legal recognition for same-sex marriage does not diminish the right of adult individuals to live together by choice.
The women were directed to report any threats or interference to the police, who were instructed to verify their adult status and ensure their protection.
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