Are Long-Term Live-In Partners Treated Like Married Couples In DV Cases?

The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, extends protection not only to married women but also to women in live-in relationships, recognizing the evolving nature of relationships in society. However, not all live-in relationships automatically qualify for protection; courts apply specific tests to determine eligibility.

Legal Recognition of Live-In Relationships under the DV Act

Definition under the DV Act

The Act defines domestic relationship broadly to include relationships in the nature of marriage, which covers live-in relationships that fulfill certain criteria.

Criteria for Live-In Relationship Recognition

• Duration of cohabitation: Long-term and continuous cohabitation resembling marriage.
• Shared household and financial interdependence.
• Public perception: The couple presents themselves socially as husband and wife.
• Stability and commitment similar to marriage.
• Absence of legal marriage with anyone else.

Judicial Precedents

The Supreme Court and various High Courts have held that live-in partners can be protected under the DV Act if the relationship is akin to marriage.

Cases such as Velusamy vs D. Patchaiammal set guidelines for determining such relationships.

Protection and Relief Available

Women in qualifying live-in relationships can seek protection orders, maintenance, residence rights, and monetary relief.

The abuser can be restrained from domestic violence acts just like in marital cases.

Limits and Challenges

Short-term or casual live-in relationships may not be covered.

Courts examine the genuineness and permanence of the relationship.

Evidence of cohabitation and social recognition is crucial.

Consumer Safety Tips

• Document the nature and duration of the live-in relationship.
• Maintain evidence of shared household and financial interdependence.
• Seek early legal advice to understand rights under the DV Act.
• Report any form of abuse without hesitation.
• Consult Protection Officers or NGOs experienced in live-in relationship cases.

Example

A woman cohabiting with her partner for over three years, sharing a household and finances, faced domestic abuse. She filed a complaint under the DV Act. The court recognized their live-in relationship as akin to marriage and granted protection orders and maintenance, reinforcing that long-term live-in partners are entitled to similar legal protections.