In India, wherever there is talk of unmarried couples or mention of live-in partners, most people's response becomes judgmental. If a girlfriend-boyfriend does not live together and has gone on a vacation, then it becomes difficult to get a hotel room. If both want to become live-in partners by taking a house together, then they do not even get a house easily. There is also a trend of harassing such couples in many cases.
But do you know that unmarried couples also have many legal rights? Today we are going to tell you about these rights.
For this, we spoke to Supreme Court lawyer Deepak Srivastava and Indore High Court lawyer JagrutiThakar. Information has been given in this story based on the opinion of both of them.
Let us tell you in advance that the rights of unmarried couples also depend on the judiciary in certain cases. We'll talk about them separately.
Right to security
Every human being has the right to live in a safe environment and unmarried couples also have the same right. No one can harass them just based on their relationship status. If someone is harassing you, you also have the right to complain to the police. In such a situation, a charge of harassment will be imposed and you will get legal help.
You will get protection from any kind of Harassment verbally, Physically, Online, or Mentally. You can complain about everything like stalking, cyberbullying, threats etc. If your partner is doing some kind of harassment with you, then also a complaint can be made against it.
Right to privacy
In your personal life, if someone is cheating or if you have any kind of danger from your neighbor, landlord, family members, etc., then you can also complain against him. If someone is sharing your personal information without your consent or doing any kind of spying, then you can take legal action against him.
Right to equality
Every citizen of India has this right. Marital status does not matter in this. No one can discriminate against you based on your marital status. You can get a public job, housing, services etc. Yes, there are many societies and houses where unmarried couples are not allowed to stay. However, it is not right to do so by law. There have also been cases where an unmarried couple has taken legal action against such discrimination.
Restraining orders can be taken
The practice of restraining orders is not that much in India, but it is your right. If you are in danger from someone, a restraining order can be taken against him. As a victim, you can ask the judge for a protective or restraining order. In such a situation, this notice will be issued against the person who harasses you and he will not have the right to be around you. If you see that person around you, then you can take legal action immediately.
To know the complete process of a restraining order, you have to take legal help. Think of it as a safety ring that prevents the person in front from approaching you.
Right to legal representation
Suppose you are separated from your live-in partner, then you have the right to fight for your rights with the help of a lawyer. As an Indian citizen, you have all kinds of legal rights. You can approach the court for your rights after explaining your case completely.
Rights related to civil problems
Suppose you have got emotional or medical problem due to someone's harassment. If you have suffered any financial loss or any kind of damage to your property, then you can demand compensation for such problems. You can consult any civil advocate in this matter.
Right to emotional support
Unmarried couples may need psychological or emotional support due to harassment. Recently, a similar thing has been said in a Delhi High Court case as well. In such cases, you can take counselling and therapy etc. If someone stops you, you can make a legal complaint against him.
Judiciary dependent authority
According to Advocate Deepak, now slowly case by case change is coming. He talked about two such rights which are now getting recognition. These rights usually rest with the judiciary.
Children’s rights
Unmarried couples who have children are also given parental rights. Such couples can also apply for custody and visitation rights after separation. Yes, you must take legal action for these rights. The decision will have to be taken based on the court itself. Rights related to child support, child healthcare etc. is also given to couples in a similar way.
Right of inheritance
Married couples have automatic inheritance rights, but unmarried couples do not have this right in many places. A will is valid for such rights. However, if the relationship with the partner has been going on for a long time, then this is also taken into account in court.
DISCLAIMER
It is our endeavor to bring you correct, safe and expert verified information through our articles and social media handles, but still you must consult lawyer before trying these tips.
