The Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued a directive to the Punjab Police to ensure the safety of a lesbian couple who have reported threats from their family members. This decision, delivered on May 22 by Justice HS Grewal, specifically instructs the Senior Superintendent of Police to evaluate the threat level based on the couple’s complaint and take necessary measures to protect them.
Justice Grewal declared, “Without commenting upon the status of the live-in relationship of the petitioners, the present petition is disposed of with directions to respondent No.2-Senior Superintendent of Police, Patiala, Punjab, to look into the aforesaid representation regarding the alleged threat perception and take necessary steps, as may be required, in accordance with law, to ensure that the life and liberty of the petitioners is not jeopardized at the hands of the private respondents.”
In reaching this decision, the court referenced a 2024 Supreme Court ruling that recognized the societal challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ couples and established guidelines to safeguard their fundamental rights and dignity. The High Court further clarified that the directives given would not interfere with any potential civil or criminal proceedings that might arise should legal violations occur.
Representing the petitioners was Advocate Rahul Soi, while Additional Advocate General Parneet Singh Pandher appeared on behalf of the Punjab Police. The court’s order underscores its commitment to the protection of individual rights, particularly for those in non-traditional relationships who face societal and familial opposition.
