The Allahabad High Court emphasized that adults in interfaith relationships have the constitutional right to choose to live together. This statement was made by Justice Vivek Kumar Singh while addressing multiple petitions regarding interfaith live-in arrangements. Justice Singh clarified that the Uttar Pradesh anti-conversion law does not restrict such unions or interfaith marriages, highlighting that living with someone of a different faith is fundamental to individual liberty.

Protection of Fundamental Rights

The court underscored that the choice of living with another person, irrespective of religion, is intrinsically linked to the right to life and personal liberty. Interference in these personal relationships was characterized as a significant violation of constitutional rights. According to Justice Singh, the judiciary views interfaith couples not in terms of religious affiliations but as independent adults exercising their free choice.

Legal Validation and Police Protection

Justice Singh stated that if the law permits same-sex couples to coexist in harmony, it should equally uphold the rights of heterosexual couples living together of their own accord. The court allowed a writ petition filed by twelve petitioners, affirming that interfaith couples can seek police protection against threats. The court directed law enforcement to evaluate complaints while considering the age of the petitioners and to act accordingly to protect their rights.

Clarification on Anti-Conversion Law

The ruling further clarified that Articles 14, 15, and 21 of the Indian Constitution affirm the principles of equality and non-discrimination based on religion or other factors. It was highlighted that the existence of an interfaith live-in relationship does not constitute an offense. Justice Singh stated that for accusations under the anti-conversion law to hold, there must be evidence of coercion, undue influence, or deceptive practices prompting a change of religion.

Definition and Rights of Interfaith Couples

The court noted that interfaith marriages themselves are not prohibited under the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2021. However, it emphasized that no individual should be compelled to convert to a different religion to facilitate marriage or cohabitation. This is in accordance with the procedures outlined in the aforementioned Act that govern religious conversion.

Case Background and Implications

The petitions presented to the court involved interfaith couples seeking police protection due to safety concerns stemming from family or societal pressures. The court affirmed that merely living together in an interfaith context does not encroach upon the fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution. It reiterated the importance that no individual should face discrimination based on their caste, creed, sex, or religion.

Equality Under Law for All

The Allahabad High Court concluded that legal protections are equitable for all citizens, citing Articles 14 and 15 of the Constitution. The court’s statements suggest that if individuals from the same faith can reside together, the same principle should apply to couples of differing faiths, thereby reinforcing the rights of all people to live as they choose.

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