Love Marriage and Legal Protection For Runaway Couple
Love Marriage and Legal Protection for Runaway Couple- In India, Marriages are considered a sacred union, where most people support presiding over arranged marriages, and Love marriages are regarded as taboo in orthodox and conservative societies. A study shows data depicting that a large population of the country prefers arranged marriages, especially in rural areas and traditional families. Although this trend has been evolving rapidly, new generations are increasingly opting for love marriages.
In countries like India, where marrying for love often triggers intense opposition, sometimes escalating into social ostracism, familial threats, or even violence. In such situations, many couples are compelled to run away to protect their relationship and exercise their constitutional right to marry without restrictions. These Runaway couples face adverse challenges. Hence, recognizing these vulnerabilities, the judiciary has stepped in to provide safeguards. Constitutional rights such as the right to life, personal liberty, and freedom of choice act as the backbone of legal protection for such couples.
This blog explores the concept of love marriage and Legal Protection for runaway couples, following the pivotal role played by legal experts like Advocate Amit Gupta in safeguarding their rights.
Exploring the Idea of Love Marriage and the Societal Challenges Faced by Runaway Couples
Love marriage is a type of marriage in which two individuals choose each other as partners based on mutual affection, love, and understanding, rather than having their union arranged by families or guardians. The rise of education, financial independence, and urbanization has empowered individuals to choose their partners freely. Yet, this progressive shift, love marriages still face social hurdles.
Families may oppose a relationship due to differences in caste, religion, social status, or financial background. When families refuse to accept a love marriage, this leaves couples with no choice but to be compelled to run away to formalize their marriage independently. These couples are referred to as Runaway Couples.
Here’s a list of Societal Challenges Faced by Runaway Couples, mentioned as follows:
- Social Backlash: Society may criticize or ostracize couples who defy traditional norms. This can include harassment, verbal abuse, or social exclusion.
- Family Pressure: Families might attempt to coerce the couple into separation, sometimes resorting to intimidation or threats.
- Legal Complications: Depending on the couple’s age and local laws, they may need to navigate complex legal procedures to formalize their union.
Discover the Legal Protection Given by the Constitution for Runaway Couples
In India, the legal systems recognize the rights of individuals to marry freely, provided certain conditions like age, consent are met. Legal protection is particularly crucial for runaway couples because it shields them from harassment, threats, and familial coercion.
Mentioned below are the following Legal protections given by the Constitution for Runaway Couples, highlighted as follows:
Right to Marry
The right to marry is a fundamental legal right in many democracies. Laws ensure that adults above the minimum age can marry the person of their choice, regardless of parental consent.
Right to Police Protection
Some state authorities offer specific help to runaway couples facing immediate danger. For instance, women’s helplines, legal aid cells, and police protection services can intervene to ensure the couple’s safety.
Registration of Marriage
Legal registration of marriage is another crucial protective measure. By registering their marriage under acts like the Special Marriage Act, 1954 (in India), couples gain legal recognition of their marriage and safeguard their Rights.
Protection from Harassment
Courts often intervene when runaway couples face threats or harassment from family members. It allows couples to file police complaints under sections related to threats, intimidation, or abduction, depending on the severity of the situation.
Understanding the Legal Rights of Couples Opting for Love Marriage
Runaway Couples are safeguarded by several legal rights that protect their union and ensure equal status in society. Love Marriage and Legal Protection for Runaway Couple are mandatory and safeguard their relationship and constitutional rights.
Some key rights are highlighted as follows:
Right to Choose a Life Partner (Article 21)
The Indian judiciary plays a vital role in upholding Article 21 by intervening in cases where runaway couples face threats or harassment from family members or societal forces
Special Marriage Act, 1954
Under the Special Marriage Act and personal laws, every adult has the right to marry a partner of their choice, irrespective of caste, religion, or community.
Right to Protection from Harassment
Couples facing family or societal pressure can seek police protection to ensure their safety and the security of their marriage.
Right to Maintenance and Property
After marriage, both partners are entitled to financial support and share in each other’s property as per applicable marriage laws.
Right to Inherit
Legally married partners inherit property rights from each other, securing the future of both spouses.
Right to Live with Dignity
Courts have upheld that married couples have the fundamental right to live together peacefully without interference from others.
Conclusion
Love marriage represents freedom, choice, and mutual respect in relationships, but couples who defy societal norms sometimes face immense challenges. For runaway couples, legal protection is not just a matter of procedure; it is a shield against harassment and threats to their safety. By combining legal safeguards with social awareness, runaway couples can embrace their union with confidence, dignity, and security, proving that love and law can work hand in hand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
- Is a love marriage legal in India without parents’ consent?
Yes. If both partners are 18+ (girl) and 21+ (boy), the law allows them to marry without needing parents’ approval.
- Can parents file a case against a runaway couple?
No case can be filed if both are major above the legal age. However, false complaints like kidnapping, abduction, etc., are sometimes filed. That’s why legal guidance is important.
- How can a couple ensure their marriage is valid?
- Both must be adults.
- Marriage should be performed by a recognized method court marriage, or as per religion.
- Obtain a marriage certificate for legal proof.
4. How does Advocate Amit Gupta provide legal protection for a runaway couple?
Advocate Amit Gupta assists couples in solemnizing and registering their marriage legally, and also helps in filing petitions for police protection. His expertise ensures that couples feel safe and secure throughout the process.
