RELATIONSHIP DYNAMICS: MARRIAGE, COHABITATION, AND COMMITMENT AMONG YOUNG ADULTS IN THE URBAN SETUP

Abstract

Marriage holds significant social significance as an institution, endorsed by society. It's a formally recognized relationship governed by both customary practices and legal frameworks. Sociologists and anthropologists have traditionally delineated marriage based on its roles in facilitating sexual partnerships for reproduction, legitimizing offspring, and conferring specific legal entitlements. Various scholars have emphasized these three fundamental aspects when defining the institution of marriage.A live-in relationship, or cohabitation, refers to a situation where two individuals choose to reside together in a committed, emotionally and/or sexually intimate partnership without being married. This arrangement commonly pertains to couples who have not formalized their relationship through marriage.The Supreme Court has clarified that there are no legal restrictions on individuals engaging in live-in relationships or participating in pre-marital sexual activity. The Court emphasized that living together is a fundamental right, seemingly citing Article 21 of the Constitution of India, which safeguards the right to life and personal liberty.