Sapna v. State Of Punjab And ORS.
IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH
**** CRWP-7085-2026 Date of decision: 12.06.2026 Ms. Sapna . . . . Petitioner Vs.
The State of Punjab and others . . . . Respondents ****
CORAM:
HON'BLE MR JUSTICE DEEPAK GUPTA **** Present: - Mr. Sukhvir Gill, Advocate, for the petitioner. **** DEEPAK GUPTA, J. (ORAL) By way of the present petition filed under Article 226 of the Constitution of India, the petitioner seeks issuance of a writ in the nature of mandamus directing respondents No.2 and 3 to safeguard her life and liberty from the alleged threats extended by private respondents No.4 to 9. 2.
Learned counsel for the petitioner submits that the petitioner is a major, educated and professionally qualified woman holding an MBA degree. It is contended that she has been residing independently in connection with her employment and further studies. However, her parents, maternal uncles and other relatives are allegedly pressurizing her to enter into a marriage of their choice against her wishes. It is further alleged that approximately two months ago, the petitioner was called on a false pretext, forcibly taken to her parental home and subjected to physical assault, intimidation and threats with the object of compelling her to accept the proposed marriage. Learned counsel submits that despite her categorical refusal, the pressure and threats continue. A representation dated 10.06.2026 (Annexure P-1) was submitted to the Senior Superintendent of Police, S.A.S. Nagar (Mohali), seeking protection, but no effective action has allegedly been taken thereon. 3.
Notice of motion.
VIVEK PAHWA 2026.06.12 18:48 I attest to the accuracy and integrity of this document
CRWP-7085-2026 2026:PHHC:087346 4.
Ms. Shiny Chopra, learned Assistant Advocate General, Punjab, accepts notice on behalf of respondents No.1 to 3. 5.
After hearing learned counsel for the parties, this Court is of the considered view that every major individual has a fundamental right to life, liberty, dignity, privacy and autonomy guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India. The freedom to make choices concerning one's personal life, including the decision whether, when and with whom to marry, forms an intrinsic part of such constitutional guarantee. No person can be compelled to enter into a matrimonial alliance against his or her wishes. 6.
At the same time, this Court is not required, in the present proceedings, to adjudicate upon the correctness or otherwise of the allegations levelled by the petitioner against the private respondents. The limited concern of this Court is to ensure that if there exists any genuine apprehension to the life and personal liberty of the petitioner, the same is appropriately examined by the competent police authorities in accordance with law. 7.
Consequently, without expressing any opinion on the merits of the allegations contained in the petition, respondent No.2-Senior Superintendent of Police, S.A.S. Nagar (Mohali), or any officer duly authorized by him, is directed to consider the representation dated 10.06.2026 (Annexure P-1) and assess the threat perception to the petitioner. In the event it is found that there exists any real threat to her life or personal liberty, appropriate protective measures shall be taken forthwith in accordance with law. 8.
It is, however, clarified that this order shall not be construed as an expression on the civil, matrimonial or criminal disputes, if any, between the parties, nor shall it prevent the competent authorities from proceeding in accordance with law on the basis of facts as may emerge upon inquiry. 9.
Disposed of accordingly.
(DEEPAK GUPTA) 12.06.2026 JUDGE Vivek Whether Speaking/reasoned Yes Whether reportable No VIVEK PAHWA 2026.06.12 18:48 I attest to the accuracy and integrity of this document