India, March 22 -- A young couple I know closely, Rahul and Sonal (names changed), are in a live-in relationship. The couple is compatible and committed. Yet, the partners are unable to get married because of parental opposition. Both of them are in their late twenties and financially independent. Instead, of waiting indefinitely for parental consent, they have decided to live together.

What's wrong with that? How are other people impacted by their decision? Why must 'society' interfere in Rahul and Sonal's life? While I may indignantly ask these questions, I also realise that I cannot look at this sensitive matter so simplistically.

Live-in relationships between consenting adults are not considered illegal under Indian law. Yet, they a...