Punjab State Women Commission Chairperson Raj Lali Gill today expressed concern over the increasing number of live-in relationship cases, calling them a worrying trend for society. Addressing a Lok Adalat at the Patiala Police Lines, she stated that not only young men and women but also some married individuals are engaging in such relationships, which are weakening the social fabric. She emphasized the need to curb this issue and announced that she would recommend legal amendments to the state government on the matter.
During the Lok Adalat, Chairperson Mrs. Gill heard around 35 cases and directed police officials to reinvestigate several complaints. She also took up new cases, reaffirming the commission’s commitment to ensuring a fair hearing and timely justice for women. She highlighted that many women are unable to visit thecommission’s office in Mohali, which is why such Lok Adalats are organized across districts.
Interacting with the media after the event, Mrs. Gill reiterated the commission’s strict stance against derogatory language towards women. She urged both public figures and ordinary citizens to refrain from using offensive remarks against women. Addressing concerns regarding political pressure on the commission, she clarified that the commission operates independently, ensuring justice for victims through mediation without external influence.
Mrs. Gill further informed that since assuming charge in March 2024, the commission has received nearly 2,500 cases, of which 70% have already been resolved. These cases primarily involved marriage disputes, property conflicts, NRI marriages, dowry harassment, exploitation of women, live-in relationships, and domestic violence.
Expressing concern over growing intolerance within families, she remarked that minor disagreements are now escalating into major disputes, leading to increased family tensions and conflicts. She also pointed out that the rising number of old-age homes is another alarming trend for society.
The Lok Adalat was attended by SP (City) Harbant Kaur, Deputy Director of the Women Commission Nikhil Arora, District Revenue Officer Navdeep Singh, DSP Manoj Gorsi, SI Gurjeet Kaur, and Sakhi One Stop Centre Incharge Rajmeet Kaur.PA Mohan Kumar was also present at the event.