Madhya Pradesh High Court Recognizes Rights of Woman in Long-Term Live-in Relationship

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has issued a landmark decision regarding the rights of women in live-in partnerships.

Key Points:

• The court ruled that a woman who cohabits with a man for a significant period can be entitled to maintenance upon separation, even without legal marriage.

• This case involved Shailesh Bopche challenging a trial court order directing him to pay monthly maintenance to Anita Bopche, with whom he had a child.
• While the court didn’t confirm a temple marriage as claimed by Anita, it acknowledged their long-term cohabitation as husband and wife.
• Section 125 of the CrPC (Code of Criminal Procedure) was cited, which mandates maintenance for a wife unable to support herself if her husband has sufficient means.
• The High Court emphasized the couple’s extended cohabitation and the presence of a child as factors justifying maintenance.

Significance of the Ruling:

• This decision offers protection and financial support to women in long-term live-in relationships, even in the absence of formal marriage.
• It recognizes the realities of modern relationships and extends certain rights traditionally associated with marriage.

It’s important to note:

• This is a ruling from a single High Court and may not establish a nationwide precedent.
• Legal specifics regarding live-in relationships and their rights might vary across different Indian states.

This judgment highlights a potential shift in recognizing rights and obligations within non-marital cohabitation in India.