Delhi High Court Upholds Personal Liberty for Visually Impaired Interfaith Couple
In a landmark ruling that reinforces the fundamental rights of personal liberty and choice, the Delhi High Court has granted permission for a 100 percent visually impaired interfaith couple to live together. The decision, delivered on April 18, came after the court personally interacted with the woman involved, who unequivocally expressed her desire to reside with the petitioner and marry him.
Court Records Woman's Emphatic Statement
According to reports from news agency ANI, a division bench comprising Justice Navin Chawla and Justice Ravinder Dudeja noted that the woman appeared before the court and "emphatically stated" her wish to stay with Ram Kripal, the petitioner. Both individuals are fully visually impaired and intend to marry soon. The court, acknowledging her statement and her status as a major adult, affirmed her freedom to live with Kripal.
Familial Opposition and Judicial Response
The bench also addressed the opposition from the woman's father, who informed the court that he disapproved of the relationship and would sever ties if she chose to go with Kripal. However, the court made it clear that her autonomy would prevail over familial objections, underscoring the importance of individual rights in such sensitive matters.
Police Protection and Safety Measures
Taking into account the petitioner's apprehensions and the sensitivity of the case, the court directed the State to provide police assistance to safely escort the couple to a location of their choice. Additionally, the local beat constable was instructed to share contact details with them to ensure immediate help in case of emergencies. With these directives, the habeas corpus petition was disposed of.
Background of the Case
The case originated from a habeas corpus petition filed by Ram Kripal under Article 226 of the Constitution, represented by Advocate Anubhav Tyagi along with Advocates Kuldeep Jauhari, Sahil Ahuja, and Partha Sharma. The petition alleged that Kripal's partner, also 100 percent visually impaired, had been forcibly taken away and confined by her family in March due to their interfaith relationship. Earlier, on April 15, the High Court had issued a notice and directed that the woman be produced before it. Prior to the alleged confinement, she had been living independently in a Delhi hostel.
Broader Implications and Societal Barriers
This case has garnered significant attention for highlighting the vulnerabilities faced by visually impaired individuals asserting their right to choose a partner, despite societal barriers and familial opposition. It serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing challenges in upholding personal freedoms in diverse social contexts.
