Bombay High Court Upholds Adult Woman’s Right to Choose Her Future, Marriage and Place of Residence

The woman, originally from Telangana, had left her home and travelled to Maharashtra after alleging that her family was pressuring her to marry her cousin, who is ten years older than her. She wanted to continue her studies and become financially independent, but her conservative family allegedly refused to support her aspirations, prompting her to leave home to protect her future.

Following her departure, her parents filed a missing person report with the local police. Fearing that her biological family and community members could trace her, force her to return, or misuse police intervention against her wishes, the woman approached the Bombay High Court seeking protection.

She requested the court to direct both Maharashtra Police and Telangana Police to ensure her safety from any threats, harassment, or attempts to forcibly return her to her family.

The judges examined the matter closely and met the woman privately in their chambers to understand her circumstances. The court found her to be mature, clear-minded, and fully aware of the decisions she was making.

Although her adoptive parents informed the court that they would not force her into marriage, the woman clearly stated that she did not want to return home. However, she assured the court that she would remain in contact with them so they could know about her safety and well-being.

The Bombay High Court ruled that as an adult citizen, the woman has the legal right to make personal decisions, and neither her parents nor the authorities can compel her to return home against her wishes. The judges emphasised that such personal choices are protected under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty.

The court directed the Telangana Police to close the missing person case and made it clear that no person can use threats, criminal pressure, or coercion to force the woman to return.

The woman was represented by Senior Advocate Mihir Desai before the court. The ruling reinforces the constitutional protection available to adults in making independent decisions about their personal lives, education, residence, and relationships.