Published Paper Details:

The concept of Live-In-Relationships is gaining acceptance in Indian society, allowing couples to cohabit outside marriage. Though not legally recognized as marriage, it carries various complications, responsibilities, and legal implications. The absence of a specific legislation on this subject has led to the formulation of guidelines by the Supreme Court to regulate such relationships. This paper explores the legal issues faced by females in Live-In-Relationships and the rights available to them under the existing legal framework. While the Domestic Violence Act of 2005 provides some protection to women in such relationships, there is a need for further recognition and protection of their rights. The Justice Malimath Committee Report of 2003 recommended amending Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure to include women living with a man "like his wife" for a reasonably long period within the definition of "wife." The objective of this project is to analyze the rights and remedies available to female partners in Live-In-Relationships and identify the existing legal loopholes. By exploring relevant court judgments and legal provisions, this study suggests measures for better safeguarding the rights of aggrieved females in Live-In-Relationships