The Allahabad High Court has ruled in favor of a 26-year-old woman from Ghaziabad, allowing her to leave her father’s custody and live with her Muslim husband. The court emphasized that as an adult, she possesses the fundamental right to select her partner. This decision underscores the legal recognition of personal choice in marriage, reflecting broader societal issues surrounding individual rights and familial authority in India.
During the hearing on Tuesday, she told the court that she has voluntarily entered into matrimonial alliance with Khan and wants to reside with him. After interacting with them, the court observed that it is well settled that a person who has attained age of majority is entitled to exercise the fundamental right to choose her partner and lead her life in accordance with her own wishes.
The court said Sonika is at liberty to live with her partner and directed police authorities to ensure adequate security to them.
The court also directed family members not to interfere in their matrimonial life.
Such a choice is personal to the individual concerned and cannot be dictated or controlled by the wishes of her parents or other family members, the court said.
