The Allahabad High Court has freed a 26-year-old Ghaziabad woman from her father’s custody and allowed her to live with her Muslim husband, saying she is adult and has the fundamental right to choose her partner.
During the hearing on Tuesday, she told the court that she has voluntarily entered into matrimonial alliance with Khan and wants to reside with him. After interacting with them, the court observed that it is well settled that a person who has attained age of majority is entitled to exercise the fundamental right to choose her partner and lead her life in accordance with her own wishes.
The court said Sonika is at liberty to live with her partner and directed police authorities to ensure adequate security to them.
The court also directed family members not to interfere in their matrimonial life.
Such a choice is personal to the individual concerned and cannot be dictated or controlled by the wishes of her parents or other family members, the court said.
