RECOGNITION OF LIVE-IN RELATIONSHIPS IN INDIA: LEGAL STATUS AND MAINTENANCE ENTITLEMENTS

The ever-changing social scenario of India has undergone a gradual shift away from conventional matrimonial relationships to other forms of intimate union or partnership, including live-in relationships. These are relatively new manifestations of relationships that, despite their widespread growth, are not explicitly governable under any statutory provisions of Indian family laws. Thus, a state of confusion prevails with regard to their legal recognition. This paper seeks to critically address issues regarding the legal acknowledgment of live-in relationships in India, particularly with reference to their judicial evaluation and claims for maintenance by women in relationships "like marriage." The paper seeks to evaluate statutory provisions that include Section 125 of the Criminal Procedure Code, now Section 144 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, and the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.In addition, judicial precedent cases such as Badri Prasad vs. Dy. Director of Consolidation, Chanmuniya vs. Virendra Kumar Singh Kushwaha, will equally be discussed regarding their influence on the presumption of marriage for maintenance rights. Moreover, the Malimath Committee will equally come under sharp scrutiny regarding its implications for progressive reforms. The article will equally conclude by arguing that, despite judicial activism at play, legislative approval remains crucial to imparting clarity to the laws for ensuring dignity for every individual living out of wedlock.