Is Live-in Relationship Now A 'Crime'? Couple Ostracised, Fined ₹21 Lakh By Panchayat In Rajasthan

Jalore: Is live-in relationship a crime? While Indian law does not criminalise live-in relationships, a shocking case of Rs 21 lakh fine and social boycott has surfaced from Jalore, Rajasthan, where a 21-year-old woman and a 22-year-old man have been ostracised from the society.

A panchayat has fined the unmarried couple Rs 21 lakh for living together.

The couple had been in a live-in relationship since November 2025. The panchayat has declared that they cannot continue living together and the woman must go back to her parents' residence.

Social Boycott

As per reports, the couple went to attend a mourning ceremony following the death of a relative. However, they were not allowed to attend the event.

They are not being allowed to participate in social events and are not receiving any visitors. Further, the couple have also been banned from visiting religious places.

As per reports, the woman was a victim of child marriage and she later took a divorce from her husband after coming of age. Thereafter, she started living with her present partner.

Complaint Filed With Police

A complaint has been filed with Jalore Police, with the victim's family naming several accused in the case and demanding action against them.

The police have launched an investigation into the case.

Is Live-In Relationship A Crime?

No, live-in relationships in India are not illegal. Consenting adults are free to live together without getting married. The Supreme Court recognises this as a fundamental right to life and personal liberty under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. 

In the case of Lata Singh v. State of Uttar Pradesh (2006), the Supreme Court ruled that a woman has the right to live with a man of her choice, whether they are married or not. The case was related to inter-caste relationship.

Also Read- A Penny Mistake: Farmer Expecting Rs 2,000 Gets '1 Paisa' Under PM-Kisan Scheme, Govt Responds