The Hindu : National : NCW seeks change in definition of ‘live-in’

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NCW seeks change in definition of ‘live-in’

Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI: The National Commission for Women (NCW) has sought a change in the definition of live-in relationships to exclude “relationship of convenience.”

NCW chairperson Girija Vyas told reporters on Friday that relationships of convenience should not be considered under the purview of “live-in” and only those relationships which were in the nature of marriage should be brought under the definition.

The term “live-in” was prone to misinterpretation and negative interpretation, and hence had to be done away with. “In certain cases where the relationship is barely six months old and there is no commitment, the court can take a decision to declare it null and void,” she said.

In the first round of deliberations of a special committee formed by it on the Maharashtra government’s proposal to provide sanctity to live-in relationships, the NCW decided there was need for gauging the seriousness of a relationship which should be done by courts. Thus, for any relief, the court had to judge on the facts and circumstances of each case whether any relationship was in the nature of marriage or otherwise, she said.

Change in laws

Ms. Vyas called for a change in laws like the Dowry Act and Property Act to include the rights of a live-in partner. The commission, however, demanded strict protection of the rights of the first wife.

The committee, formed 15 days ago, would continue its deliberations and soon come out with a complete set of recommendations on the issue.

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