The Calcutta High Court has directed the West Bengal Police to provide security to an inter-faith couple in Howrah and ensure that their marriage is conducted without disruption, observing that adult citizens are free to choose their life partners.
The order was passed by Justice Saugata Bhattacharyya while hearing a petition filed by a man and a woman belonging to different faiths, who sought police protection for their wedding after alleging opposition from local residents.
The couple's counsel told the court that resistance from people in their locality had created apprehensions that they could be prevented from solemnising the marriage.
While granting relief, the court said there was no legal impediment to the marriage.
"This court does not find any hindrance even if it is a case of inter-faith marriage since the petitioners are adult citizens of this country and they have the right to choose their life partners," Justice Bhattacharyya observed.
The court directed the police to provide adequate protection to the couple during the wedding ceremony, which is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, and to ensure that no untoward incident occurs.
Justice Bhattacharyya also instructed the inspector in-charge of Uluberia police station in Howrah to submit a compliance report within seven days of the marriage. The matter has been listed for further hearing on August 10.
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During the hearing, senior advocate Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya, appearing for the petitioners, argued that the couple feared they would be stopped from getting married because of the backlash in their locality over their decision.
Appearing for the state, Additional Advocate General Rajdeep Mazumder placed before the court a communication from the inspector in-charge of Uluberia police station, stating that authorities had already initiated measures to maintain law and order in the area.
Meanwhile, Howrah (Rural) Superintendent of Police Amit Verma said on Tuesday that the district police were taking all necessary steps to comply with the high court's directions and ensure adequate security for the couple.
(With inputs from PTI)
