Being in love can cost lovers their lives. But what comes as hope for them is the recent Delhi High Court direction, which asked the Delhi Police to provide protection to a newly-wed couple. The duo had married against the wishes of the bride’s parents and were being threatened by them.
Delhi-based lawyer, Meenakshi Lekhi explains that it’s one’s fundamental right to liberty under which one can choose to love a person of his choice. “And the State is duty-bound to protect the rights of every citizen. So, the court directions are clear, and aim at upholding the rights of this couple,” she says.
Meenakshi informs that the court has regularly been passing such directions. But activists argue that implementation becomes a problem.
Activist Harsh Malhotra, the chief co-ordinator of the helpline of Love Commandos, a group that champions the cause of lovers, blames the police for its inaction and laidback attitude when it comes to rescuing lovelorn couples.
“We have been getting calls from across the country,” says Harish, whose group comprising lawyers, journalists and activists operates from a secret location in Delhi.
“Lovers are facing humiliation and are being tortured not only by society, but even their families. The sinful act of honour killings have earned a bad name for the country. We know that laws support their cause, but what’s troublesome is the mindset of society. Even when the court has made it clear, the police often becomes uncooperative,” he adds.
Lovers Nishika, 24, and Udit, 25, are both from UP. The two belong to different castes. They decided to get married against the wishes of their families. But after the couple was traced to Delhi, the duo started getting threatening calls from the girl’s brothers.
“I approached the police for help. But had to face an ordeal instead. They harassed and threatened us and told me to leave or they will put me behind bars for kidnapping a girl,” says Udit, who works with a manufacturing unit in Noida, and adds that he couldn’t complete his studies after Class 10.
“I don’t know much about the law, but was aware that the cops couldn’t legally do what they threatened because my wife is not a minor,” he says.
“When I informed them, they had to let me go. They told me not to come back to them. It was a huge disappointment,” adds Udit.
If the directions of the court are not adhered to properly, it may be taken as contempt of court, cautions Meenakshi.