Live-In-Relationship: A Socio-Legal Analysis

Marriage is a universal institution and it is that social relationship which is found everywhere in the world. It is not possible to trace the beginning of institution of marriage on the basis of any authentic recorded history. But we cannot deny the fact that this very institution has pillared human civilization. In India by law Marriage is considered the civil status of one man and one woman united in law for life. This union is for the discharge to each other and the community the duties legally incumbent on those whose association is founded on the distinction of sex.1 Marriage gave societal approval to the sexual relationship of two persons of opposite sex and permitted them to live together as husband and wife and have a family of their own. On the other hand live-in relationships which are seen as an outcome of westernization also hold strong roots in the Indian society. Although there are several instances in history of a man and woman cohabiting without a matrimonial bond the fact is that it has gained widespread recognition as of today particularly in urban areas.In India amongst Hindus marriage is a sacrament and not a civil contract. Basically it is a part of Sanskara in essence a ceremony obligatory in Hindu religion. Therefore a Hindu marriage is conducted through performance of religious rites..