No adult can be forced to leave their spouse, and no family or community has the right to punish a couple for marrying by choice. If you face threats, the law gives you remedies — and courts take them seriously.
Steps we take
- Immediate safety: if there is immediate danger, call 112.
- Written representation to police: a written complaint to the local police station and senior officers, attaching your marriage certificate and age proofs, recording the threats and asking for protection.
- Protection petition: if police protection is not given or the threat continues, a petition under Article 226 of the Constitution before the Gujarat High Court seeking directions to police to protect the couple.
- Follow-up: ensuring that any order is communicated to the police station concerned.
Legal basis
The Supreme Court's judgments in Lata Singh v. State of U.P. (2006) and Shakti Vahini v. Union of India (2018) direct the police and state to protect adult couples from harassment and violence by family members or community groups, and to take action against those who threaten them.
What to keep ready
- Marriage certificate (or proof of marriage and pending registration)
- Age proof and ID of both partners
- Any messages, call records or recordings of threats
- Your current address where you need protection
Frequently asked questions
Can we get protection before registering our marriage?
Yes. Adults living together or intending to marry can seek protection. It is helpful to have proof of age and, if married, proof of the marriage.