"Non-Marital Unions and Legal Recognition in India: Bridging the Gap between Tradition and Modernity”

Marriage was the base of old Indian society, now a day relationships are changed and the position of marriage institution degraded by open relationships. This paper explores the evolving legal recognition of non-marital unions, focusing on the shifting dynamics between traditional marriage and contemporary relationships. As cohabitation, civil partnerships, and other non-traditional unions become increasingly common, legal systems worldwide are grappling with the need to balance tradition with modern societal norms. The research examines the legal protections afforded to non-marital unions, comparing how different jurisdictions approach issues like property rights, inheritance, and parental responsibilities. It also addresses the challenges of extending legal recognition to non-traditional relationships without undermining the institution of marriage. Through a comparative analysis, this paper highlights the potential for legal reforms to better reflect modern family structures while respecting cultural and historical values. The study ultimately argues for a more inclusive legal framework that bridges the gap between traditional marriage and evolving forms of partnership, ensuring fairness and equality for all family units.