Bombay High Court Safeguards Pregnant Woman's Right to Choose Her Partner

The Bombay High Court has intervened to ensure the safety of a 31-year-old pregnant woman who received threats from her family because of her decision to marry a partner from a different faith. The court directed the police to protect her, underscoring her right to independent decision-making as an adult.

In a recent ruling, a bench comprising Justices Sarang Kotwal and Shyam Chandak affirmed the woman’s autonomy. Despite opposition from her family, the court supported her decision to live with her partner outside Maharashtra. The ruling came after her father filed a habeas corpus petition, claiming she was missing since April.

The court instructed Mumbai's Vakola police station to coordinate with local law enforcement in the area where the woman currently resides, ensuring her continued safety. The woman's whereabouts were discovered after a police inquiry revealed she was living with her partner, highlighting their safety concerns due to family opposition.