Sheenu And Another vs State Of Haryana And Others

Deepak Gupta, J

The petitioners, both stated to be major, seek protection of their life and personal liberty apprehending threat at the hands of private respondents.

Learned counsel submits that the petitioners are residing together of their own volition and that they apprehend danger to their life and liberty on account of opposition from their family members.

Without expressing any opinion on the nature, legality or validity of the relationship between the petitioners, this Court considers it appropriate to observe that every citizen is entitled to protection of his/her life and personal liberty guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India.

The limited grievance raised in the present petition pertains to the alleged threat perception. Therefore, this Court is not required to adjudicate upon the legality of the relationship between the petitioners or the matrimonial status of either of them. Any such issue shall be determined by the competent forum, if and when occasion so arises.

Consequently, respondent No.2-Senior Superintendent of Police/Commissioner of Police concerned is directed to examine the representation submitted by the petitioners and, upon assessing the threat perception, take such steps as may be warranted in accordance with law for ensuring that no harm is caused to the life and personal liberty of the petitioners.

It is clarified that this order shall not be construed as recognition of the relationship claimed by the petitioners, nor shall it confer upon them any legal status or affect the rights of the spouse, children or any other person. It is further clarified that this order shall not preclude any civil, criminal or matrimonial proceedings permissible in law. it is also made clear that grant of protection of life and liberty cannot be construed as approval or validation of the relationship of the petitioners.

Disposed of.