Adult consensual marriage entitles couple to police protection from familial threats and harassment.

Two individuals, both aged 24, solemnized their marriage on June 10, 2026, according to Vedic customs and supported by a marriage certificate and identification documents.

The petitioners alleged that the wife’s family and community members were threatening them with violence, "honor killings," and the initiation of false criminal proceedings.

Consequently, they filed a writ petition seeking police protection to ensure their safety and liberty while residing together.

1. Whether adult citizens who marry of their own free will are entitled to state protection against threats of violence or harassment from family members.

2. Whether the state and police authorities have a duty to prevent interference with an individual's right to choose a life partner.

Adults possess the legal right to marry a person of their choice without outside interference.

Inter-caste or inter-religious marriages between consenting adults are legal and must be protected by the administration from harassment or "honor" based violence as per Lata Singh v. State of U.P. and Another (2006).

Any attempt to obstruct the choice of a partner is an assault on human dignity and a violation of constitutional rights as per Shakti Vahini v. Union of India (2018).

The court observed that the petitioners' status as majors was undisputed by the State’s counsel.

Applying the Lata Singh precedent, the court reasoned that because the parties are adults, they have the absolute freedom to reside with whomever they choose, and no criminal offense is committed by such a union.

The court noted that threats of "honor killing" or harassment by family members are illegal, barbaric, and shameful acts that the police are duty-bound to prevent.

Since the petitioners proved their age and marriage, the court held that the State must intervene to ensure their safety from the high-handed acts of the family.

It directed the Superintendent of Police, Harda, to investigate the matter and take immediate, appropriate steps to provide protection to the petitioners.

The police were further instructed to ensure the couple is not harassed and to initiate criminal proceedings against any individuals issuing threats or committing acts of violence.