Cuttack, Jan 13: The High Court has reiterated that obtaining a girl’s consent before marriage is essential, emphasizing that parents cannot compel her to marry against her will. The ruling came during the hearing of a habeas corpus case, highlighting the importance of respecting the autonomy of adult women in making marital decisions.

The court noted that forcing a girl into marriage is detrimental to a healthy society. It stressed that parents must seek their daughter’s approval before taking any steps related to her marriage. Any decision imposed on her without consent is unacceptable and goes against legal and social norms.

Authorities and society, the court observed, should ensure that parents do not impose their will on their children and that the decisions of adult girls are respected. The judgment underlines the High Court’s commitment to safeguarding individual rights and personal freedom in matters of marriage.