“Indian Families Undergoing Major Changes, Reshaping Law and Society”: Justice B V Nagarathna

SUPEREME COURT

Supreme Court Judge Justice B V Nagarathna on Saturday said that the Indian family structure is undergoing a rapid transformation, with significant implications for social norms and legal frameworks in the country.

Speaking at the Southern Zone Regional Conference on “Family: The Basis of Indian Society”, Justice Nagarathna emphasized that while the family has always been the cornerstone of Indian society, it is currently being redefined by modern realities.“

The family is not just a social unit but a vital institution that connects generations — a link to our past and a bridge to our future,” she said.

Forces Behind Shift

Justice Nagarathna identified several key drivers behind the ongoing transformation in Indian families. These include urbanisation, higher educational attainment, especially among women, and the economic independence of individuals all of which are fostering individualistic aspirations and altering traditional family roles.

The mobility of the workforce, particularly among younger generations, is also contributing to a rise in nuclear families, away from the traditional joint family systems that once dominated Indian households.

Role Of Law In Supporting Change

Interestingly, she noted that the legal system itself has adapted to these changes, playing an important role in supporting individual rights and gender equality within the family structure. From marriage and divorce laws to inheritance and domestic violence legislation, Indian family law has evolved over time to accommodate a more diverse and complex social fabric.“The law is not static,” she said. “It evolves with the society it serves.”

Her remarks come at a time when debates around gender roles, marriage rights, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and live-in relationships are gaining national prominence, forcing the judiciary and lawmakers to continuously reinterpret what defines a ‘family’ in modern India.

Need For A Balanced Approach

While acknowledging the importance of these changes, Justice Nagarathna also stressed the need to preserve core family values that have historically contributed to social cohesion and emotional well-being. She cautioned against completely abandoning the support systems traditionally found in Indian families.

“The challenge before us is to strike a balance between progress and preservation — to create a society that respects both individual autonomy and the strength of familial bonds,” she concluded.

Reflection Of Changing India

Her comments reflect a broader national reality — one where the definition of family is expanding, shaped by economic growth, education, and the demand for equality. As families evolve, so too must the institutions and laws that support them.

This shift is not just about structural change; it is also about changing mindsets, societal expectations, and the future direction of Indian society. Justice Nagarathna’s address serves as a timely reminder of how deeply the family unit is interwoven with the country’s legal and cultural identity.