Consenting Adults Don’t Need Societal or Parental Approval to Choose Life Partners: Delhi High Court

The Delhi High Court held that consenting adults have a constitutional right to choose their life partners without societal or parental interference.

Allowing a writ petition filed by a married couple seeking protection, the Court observed that the right to marry is an integral facet of personal liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution. 

It noted that once individuals are majors and have married by choice, no one, including parents or society, can obstruct their decision or threaten their life and liberty.

The Court granted police protection to the couple and permitted them to approach local police authorities whenever necessary.

[Laxmi Devi & Anr. v. State (NCT of Delhi) & Ors]