LEGAL VULNERABILITIES IN LIVE-IN-RELATIONSHIPS: MAINTENANCE RIGHTS AND PROTECTION OF WOMEN

The idea of cohabitation which involves the idea of men and women interacting has significantly changed in post – modern era. “Live in relationships” have become quite apparent in Indian Society, yet they have no specific statutory framework which deals with such relationship, they are left legally unsettled. This uncertainty has most acutely affected women particularly in relation to maintenance and protection form abuse. This paper examines how courts in their limited capacity, have attempted to address these concerns by interpreting existing laws, especially through the concept of a “relationship in nature of marriage” . The study analyses judicial approaches to maintenance claims, the application of protective remedies under domestic violence law. The argument is that even though courts have provided us some great safeguards, the inconsistent standards and discretionary outcomes still continue to erode legal certainty. The article concludes by stating that judicial interference alone cannot suffice the matter and points out that clearer legislative guidance is indispensably needed for effective and uniform protection. Keywords- Cohabitation, Protection, Maintenance, Live-in-relationship