Thu Dec 19 21:09:00 UTC 2024: ## Maharashtra Courts Mandate Safe Houses for Interfaith Couples

**Mumbai, December 20, 2024** – The Bombay High Court directed the Maharashtra government to immediately provide safe housing to an interfaith couple facing threats from family members. The court’s decision follows the state’s assurance that it has established safe houses in government guest houses across all districts, as announced in a December 18th circular.

The couple, a Hindu man and a Muslim woman, have been in a relationship since 2021 and plan to marry. Facing threats after informing their families, they sought the court’s intervention. The court ordered the couple be placed in a safe house in Mumbai’s suburbs by 6 pm on December 20th, assigning the public prosecutor direct responsibility for ensuring compliance. Police protection was also ordered for the male petitioner to commute to work.

The court’s ruling builds upon a previous case involving a similar situation. The court clarified that the safe houses are available to both married and unmarried interfaith and inter-caste couples. The government’s December 18th circular includes contact details and a 24-hour helpline (112) for those needing assistance. A further review of the safe house program’s effectiveness is scheduled for February 10, 2025. The case will be heard again on January 6, 2025.

Read More