Women will be safe in live-in relationships only when they are accorded the status of a wife, observes Madras High Court

Chennai (Tamil Nadu) – The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court observed that women living in live-in relationships would be secure only if such relationships confer upon them the status and protection of a wife under law. The Court made these observations while hearing an application for anticipatory bail filed by a man accused of entering into a live-in relationship with a woman and later having physical relations with her on the false promise of marriage.

The Bench noted that women in live-in relationships do not enjoy the legal or marital security available to wives. In such circumstances, it becomes the duty of the Court to ensure protection to women. The Court remarked that men often portray themselves as progressive and modern while entering into live-in relationships, but when such relationships begin to deteriorate, they tend to question the character of the woman. According to the Court, this happens largely because there is no clear legal framework governing live-in relationships.

Madras High Court – Madurai Bench:
Women in live-in relationships get real security only when granted the status of a ‘wife’.

The Court cited the ancient concept of Gandharva marriage to stress protection of women.

Men misuse “modernity” to enter such ties, then blame women… pic.twitter.com/yjYpww6weD

— Sanatan Prabhat (@SanatanPrabhat) January 21, 2026

The Court further observed that although Indian society does not fully accept live-in relationships, such arrangements have become increasingly common. It stated that men perceive themselves as modern while enjoying the benefits of such relationships; however, when disputes arise, responsibility and blame are shifted onto the woman. The Bench emphasised that this unequal treatment exposes women to exploitation and insecurity.

In the present case, the Court noted that the accused had refused to marry the woman after entering into a live-in relationship with her. In view of these facts, the Bench held that the accused could be prosecuted under Section 69 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which deals with sexual intercourse obtained by deceit or false promise.