The Maharashtra government is all set to approve a proposal where live-in relationships stand to be recognized. The proposal is to bestow the status of a ‘wife’ on a woman who is involved in such a relationship. A really progressive move by the government of Maharashtra that is cognizant of the fact that Mumbai has the highest number of live-in relationships. Bangalore follows close on Mumbai’s heels.
There is an existing concept of a common law marriage wherein couples who share a live-in relationship are recognized as married couples and enjoy the same rights as traditionally married couples. The only difference is that common law marriages are never solemnised.
This move by the Maharashtra government is sure to raise a few eyebrows and ruffle a lot of feathers. But I strongly feel this would help in the long term. The Indian society ever since liberalisation has lapped up all that western culture had to offer. It was only a matter of time before this aspect of western culture creeped in. The past few years have seen a rise in the number of couples opting for live-in relationships. To most it was a matter of convenience – sort of a no strings attached arrangement. Some of those have eventually solemnised their relationship in marriage but there are still many who prefer the current arrangement.
Governtment ratification of live-in relationships would help in making it more socially accepted. This phenomenon is going to play a very important role in the societal make up of the future India. Till now there is a lot of stigma associated with it, but it seems things are about to change. Of course its not going to be an overnight process but surely with a legal approval behind it proponents of live-in relationships can look forward to a more open and accepting Indian society.
