As I have already held that
the Suit is essentially between landlord and tenants and one of the coowners
can maintain the Suit. In view thereof, I do not find that
applicants are either a necessary or a proper party.
21. As against this, Mr. Mooman relied upon the decision of this
Court in the case of Foolchand (supra) wherein also the learned Single
Judge also referred to the decision of Ramesh Hirachand Kundanmal
(supra) and held that co-owner is neither a necessary nor a proper party.
In the light of the decisions in Jainuddin's case (supra) referred
hereinabove, I am clearly of the opinion that one of the co-owners is
neither a necessary nor a proper party. The applicants, therefore, cannot
be impleaded in the Suit.
IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUDICATURE AT MUMBAI
CIVIL APPELLATE JURISDICTION
WRIT PETITION NO.7506 OF 2015
M/s. Sirsiwala Realty Vs.Gyasuddin Kifayatulla Zariwala and others
CORAM : R. G. KETKAR, J.
DATE : OCTOBER 18, 2016
Heard Mr. Harit, learned Counsel for petitioners in W.P.No.7506
of 2015 and respondents No.3 to 6 in W.P.No.2888 of 2015 and
respondents No.2 to 5 in W.P.No.10967 of 2014 and W.P. No.10968 of
2014 and Mr. Mooman, learned Counsel for respondent No.1 in
W.P.No.7506 of 2015 and petitioner in W.P.No.2888 of 2015,
W.P.No.10967 of 2014 and W.P.No.10968 of 2014 at length.
2. Writ Petition No.7506 of 2015 is instituted by petitioners,
hereinafter referred to as 'applicants', challenging the judgment and
order dated 04.02.2015 passed by the Appellate Bench of the Small
Causes Court, Mumbai in Revision Application No.373 of 2014. By
that order, the appellate Court allowed the Revision Application filed by
the respondent No.1, hereinafter referred to as 'plaintiff', and quashed
and set aside the judgment and order dated 23.08.2014 passed by the
learned Judge presiding over Court Room No.9 of the Court of Small
Causes at Mumbai below exhibit-55 in R.A.E.Suit No.205/335 of 2001.
The learned trial Judge allowed the application made by the applicants
and directed them to be joined as plaintiffs No.2 to 5 in the Suit. The
appellate Court dismissed the application filed by the applicants adding
them as party.
3. Writ Petitions No. 10968 of 2014, 2888 of 2015 and 10967 of
2014 are instituted by the original plaintiff challenginga.
judgment and order dated 05.11.2014 passed by the learned
Judge, presiding over Court Room No.25 of the Court of Small Causes
at Mumbai below exhibit-28 in R.A.E.&R. Suit No.124/210 of 2008;
b. judgment and order dated 05.01.2015 passed by the learned
Judge presiding over Court Room No.12 of the Court of Small Causes at
Mumbai below exhibit-70 in R.A.E.&R. Suit No.166/290 of 2004; and
c. judgment and order dated 05.11.2014 passed by the learned
Judge presiding over Court Room No.25 of the Court of Small Causes at
Mumbai below exhibit-31 in R.A.E.&R. Suit No.123/209 of 2008,
respectively.
4. By these orders, the learned trial Judge allowed the applications
made by the respondents (for short 'applicants') in Writ Petitions No.
10968 of 2014, 2888 of 2015 and 10967 of 2014 under Order 1, Rule 10
of C.P.C. and directed the plaintiff to implead the respondents as party
defendants in the respective Suits. Since the common questions of law
and fact between the same parties arise in these Petitions, the same can
conveniently be disposed of by this common judgment.
5. In support of Writ Petition No.7506 of 2015, Mr. Harit submitted
that applicants have purchased half undivided share in the suit property
by a registered conveyance dated 11.12.2012 from the legal
representatives of the erstwhile owners. Applicants approached the
plaintiff for amicable partition of the property. As the plaintiff did not
accept the suggestion, applicants were constrained to institute Suit
No.947 of 2013 on the Original Side of this Court. He submitted that
during the pendency of that Suit, applicants took out Notice of Motion
No.23 of 2014 for appointment of Court Receiver and injunction
restraining the defendant (plaintiff herein) from creating third party
rights or handing over possession of the suit property. On 15.01.2014,
the learned Single Judge recorded the statement made on behalf of the
plaintiff herein that until further orders, he will not create any third party
rights or handover possession in respect of the suit property. By order
dated 27.02.2014, the learned Single Judge granted interim order in
terms of prayer clause (c) of the Motion and declined to appoint Court
Receiver in respect of the suit property. The learned Single Judge also
directed the plaintiff herein to maintain accounts in respect of the suit
property and shall file such accounts every six months in the Court with
a copy thereof to be furnished to the applicants' Advocate.
6. Mr. Harit submitted that aggrieved by this decision, applicants
and plaintiff preferred appeals before the Division Bench of this Court.
By order dated 10.04.2014, the appeals were dismissed reserving liberty
to the applicants to take out appropriate proceedings before the learned
Single Judge in the event of making out a case that a plaintiff herein is
not properly maintaining the accounts.
7. Mr. Harit submitted that plaintiff has instituted frivolous criminal
cases against the applicants. Some of these cases are withdrawn and
some are pending. He submitted that plaintiff has instituted as many as
11 Suits against the different tenants. The main object of the plaintiff in
instituting the Suit is to knock out money from these tenants. He
submitted that one of the tenants has lodged N.C. complaint against the
plaintiff herein raising that grievance. He submitted that the Suits
instituted by the plaintiff are with oblique motive and are not bonafide
proceedings. Plaintiff intends to enter into settlement with the tenants
for recovering the money from them.
8. Mr. Harit submitted that as the applicants have purchased half
undivided share in the suit property, they are necessary party. The
outcome of the Suits is bound to affect them adversely. He submitted
that as the outcome of the Suits is likely to affect the applicants, they are
required to be impleaded in the Suit. In support of this submission, he
relied upon the following decisions:
a. Sumita Pradipkumar Dixit Vs. Pushpadevi G. Makharia,
2002 (4) Bom.C.R. 249, and in particular paragraphs 11, 13, 14
and 17;
b. Ratan Lal Vs. Gopal passed by the learned Single Judge of
Rajasthan High Court - Jodhpur in Second Appeal No.237 of
2012 decided on 17.01.2014, and in particular paragraph 44
thereof;
c. B. Valsala Vs. Sundaram Nadar Bhaskaran, 1994 AIR (Ker)
164, and in particular paragraph 13 thereof; &
d. Ranjitsingh Linga Vs. Municipal Corporation of Greater
Mumbai, 2010 (4) Bom.C.R.363, and in particular paragraph 7
thereof.
9. Mr. Harit further submitted that the Courts below committed
serious error in entertaining the revision application. In fact, the order
passed by the learned trial Judge was purely a procedural order, not
affecting the substantive rights of the parties. Though the said
contention was advanced as also reliance was placed upon the Full
Bench decision of this Court in the case of Bhartiben Shah Vs. Gracy
Thomas, 2013(2) Mh.L.J. 25, and though the appellate Court also
observed in paragraph 9 of the impugned order that the order passed by
the trial Court is a procedural order under C.P.C., still, it directly affects
the substantial rights of the plaintiff as dominus litis. He, therefore,
submitted that the impugned order is liable to be set aside thereby
restoring the trial Court's order. Mr. Harit supported the orders
impugned in Writ Petitions No.10968 of 2014, 2888 of 2015 and 10967
of 2014.
10. On the other hand, Mr. Mooman supported the order impugned in
Writ Petition No.7605 of 2015 and submitted that the orders impugned
in Writ Petitions No.10968 of 2014, 2888 of 2015 and 10967 of 2014
are liable to be set aside. He submitted that basically, plaintiff has
instituted Suit against the tenant. The Suit is essentially between a
landlord and tenant. It is settled principle of law that one of the coowners
can maintain the Suit. He submitted that respondents are neither
a necessary nor a proper party. In support of his submissions, he relied
upon the following decisions:
a. Foolchand Vs. Shabbir Hussain, 1998 (1) Mh.L.J.429; &
b. Ramesh Hirachand Kundanmal Vs. Mun. Corp. of Gr.
Bombay, 1992 (3) Bom.C.R.110.
11. He further submitted that the apprehension of the applicants that
plaintiff will enter into settlement can be taken care of by putting
plaintiff to terms. In other words, he submitted that plaintiff will not
enter into settlement without obtaining leave from this Hon'ble Court in
Suit No.947 of 2000 pending on the Original Side of this Court. Mr.
Mooman submitted that if this Court is inclined to hold that the revision
filed by the plaintiff before the appellate Court is not maintainable,
plaintiff will file substantive Writ Petition challenging the order of the
trial Court. He submitted that in any case, the order of the trial Court
impleading applicants as plaintiffs is not sustainable. He submitted that
two sets of plaintiffs cannot prosecute the Suit through two different
lawyers.
12. I have considered the rival submissions advanced by the learned
Counsel appearing for the parties. I have also perused the material on
record. Prima facie, it is not in dispute at this stage that plaintiff is the
owner to the extent of 25% share, applicants are owners to the extent of
50% share and one more party is owner to the extent of 25% share.
Thus, plaintiff is one of the co-owners who has instituted Suits against
the tenants for eviction. In a Suit between landlord and tenant, whether
other co-owner is a necessary or a property party is the moot question.
Whether the presence of other co-owner is necessary for passing
effective decree so as to hold that the other co-owner is a necessary
party or whether it enables the Court to effectively adjudicate upon and
settle the controversy between the parties so as to hold that the other coowner
is a proper party.
13. In my opinion, in a Suit for eviction between landlord and tenant,
other co-owners presence is not necessary. Having regard to the fact
that the jurisdiction of the Small Causes Court is regulated by the
provisions of Section 33 of the Maharashtra Rent Control Act, 1999 (for
short 'Act'), and in particular Section 35 lays down that nothing
contained in Sections 33 and 34 shall be deemed to bar a party to a suit,
proceeding or appeal mentioned therein in which a question of title to
premises arises and is determined, from suing in a competent court to
establish his title to such premises. Thus, even if issue of title is
determined in a Suit between landlord and tenant, a party therein is not
precluded from approaching a competent Court to establish its title. The
findings recorded by the Small Causes Court in a limited jurisdiction
will not operate as res judicata against that party.
14. In the case of Jainuddin Vs. Sitaram, 1981 Mh.L.J. 498, the Suit
was instituted under Sections 12 and 13 of the Bombay Rent Act. In
that Suit, defendant no.2 was the co-owner of the plaintiff. Defendant
no.2 filed his written statement contending inter alia that the notice
terminating tenancy of the defendant no.1-tenant was not legal. He also
opposed the plaintiff's suit for eviction on the ground of bonafide
requirement. It was urged that notice of termination ought to have
issued by all the owners. The learned single Judge of this Court
considered the decisions of the Apex Court in (1) Sri Ram Pasricha Vs.
Jagannath, AIR 1976 SC 2335 and (2) Smt. Kanta Goyal Vs. B. P.
Pathak, AIR 1977 SC 1599. In paragraph 12, the submissions
advanced on behalf of the plaintiff were recorded. It was submitted that
in a suit for eviction against the tenant by the co-owner the interest of
the other co-owners cannot be affected in any way. If one of the coowners
files a suit against the tenant and obtains possession of the suit
premises, the premises encumbered by induction of the tenant is
removed if the plaintiff's suit succeeds. If a co-owner is not satisfied
with a decree for exclusive possession in favour of one of the coowners,
his remedy is only to file a separate suit for partition and get his
share demarcated. It would be dangerous proposition that in cases of this
type, a co-owner as a defendant can oppose the suit of one of the coowners
for possession of the suit premises claiming a decree for eviction
of the tenant. After recording the submissions of the plaintiff, the
learned Single Judge observed that there is a considerable substance in
those submissions. After referring to the decision of the apex Court in
Ram Pasricha (supra) and Kanta Goel (supra), it was observed that
one of the co-owners can file a suit for eviction against the tenant. The
landlord who had let out his premises to the tenant and heirs succeeded
to his estate and one of the co-owners files a suit for eviction against the
tenant on the ground of bonafide requirement for himself, his mother or
married brother, such a suit shall be maintainable and decree for
possession in favour of one of the co-owners shall be passed. In
paragraph 13 it was observed thus:
“13. I am unable to appreciate the submission of Shri Rane that
in case where the co-owners does not give his consent for
institution of the suit by one of the co-owners and resists such a
suit, if filed, no decree on the ground of bona fide requirement for
use and occupation can be passed. In my view, having regard to
the observations made by the Supreme Court in the cases referred
to above, the co-owner may be added as a party but he cannot be
considered a necessary party to the suit by one of the co-owners.
He cannot resists the suit of the co-owner and contend that no
decree can be passed in favour of the co-owner on any of the
grounds given in the Rent Act. Take for instance, the tenant is
damaging the suit premises, causing waste to it, sub-letting the
premises or demolishing the same and without the permission of
the landlord altering the structure or constructing a permanent
structure and if a co-owner files a suit on the grounds mentioned
above against the tenant for eviction, how the co-owner can
oppose such a suit? If one of the co-owners is trying to remove the
encumbrance on the tenanted premises within the ambit of the
provisions of the Rent Act, then the decree for eviction in any way
will not be inconsistent with, or contrary to the interest of the coowners.
In such a suit if a co-owner is added as a party, no relief
can be asked against him. If the co-owner obtains possession in
pursuance of the decree passed in his favour by the competent
Court, his possession will be deemed to be the possession on
behalf of all the co-owners. And if the co-owner is not happy with
possession of the other co-owners, his remedy is only to file a
separate suit for petition and possession and get his share in a
proper proceedings democrated. Shri Rane has no disputed that the
co-owners can file a suit for bona fide requirement for his use and
occupation of the suit premises for himself or for any member of
his family. However his grievance is that if a co-owner opposes
such suit, no decree for exclusive possession in favour of one of
the co-owners can be passed. It is rather not possible to accept this
submission of Shri Rane. Because in such a suit filed by one of the
co-owners for eviction, it cannot be detrimental to the interest of
the other co-owners. Take a case where the tenant does not pay
arrears of rent and a suit is filed for recovery of arrears of rent
making the co-owners as party defendant, can he oppose the said
suit on the round that the rent should not be paid to the co-owners.
Take a case, where a suit for eviction is opposed on the ground of
causing damage to the building let out to a tenant, or causing
waste of some kind, can the co-owners join the hands with the
tenant to oppose the suit contending that the decree should not be
passed in favour of co-owners. It will be dangerous proposition to
allow the co-owners to oppose such a suit for a eviction by another
co-owners or any grounds whatsoever, joining the hands with
recalcitrant tenant and refuse to give consent for institution of the
suit. In these circumstances and having regard to the observations
made by the Supreme Court in the two cases referred to above, the
contention of Shri Rane cannot be accepted.”
15. The decision in Jainuddin's case (supra) was subsequently
followed by the learned Single Judge in Rahimtulla Abdul Rahiman
Vs. Chandrakant, AIR 1982 BOMBAY 282, and in particular
paragraph 7. The decision of the learned Single Judge in Jainuddin's
case (supra) was quoted with the approval by the Division Bench in
Hiralal Vs. Namdeo, 1983(2) Bom.C.R.71. The decision in Jainuddin
(supra) was also followed in V. Prabha & Co. Private Limited Vs.
Kuljit Singh Chadha, 2007 (2) ALL M.R. 352. Thus, the issue whether
one of the co-owners can maintain the Suit inspite of other co-owners
objecting to it is no longer res integra as far as this Court is concerned.
That apart, if one of the co-owners objects to filing of the Suit by
another co-owner, indirectly the rights of the co-owners who intend to
institute the Suit or already instituted the Suit will be curtailed. In other
words, such co-owners will not be entitled to exercise right incidental to
the right of ownership of the property. In such situation, as observed by
the learned Single Judge in Jainuddin's case (supra), remedy of other
co-owner/s is to institute Suit for partition and separate possession.
Thus, insofar as this Court is concerned, the issue is no longer res
integra. In the present case, Suit for partition is pending in this Court.
16. Mr. Harit relied upon decision in Sumita Pradipkumar Dixit
(supra), and in particular paragraphs 11, 13, 14 and 17 thereof. In that
case, respondents No.1 to 4 in their capacity as trustees of a registered
public charitable trust had instituted suit against respondents No.5 to 7
(defendants No.1 to 3) for recovery of possession of the suit premises.
By agreement dated 21.10.1970, the suit property was given on licence
to the first defendant for running a hotel. On 06.02.1976, it was alleged
that the premises were given on licence to the second defendant for
conducting a hotel. The first and second defendants started running a
hotel by name and style 'Satkar'. The Suit was instituted on three
grounds namely, (i) the defendants have carried out unauthorised
permanent alterations in the suit property; (ii) since 1998, the first and
second defendants stopped running the hotel business and inducted the
third defendant in the suit property "as a sub-licence tenant".
Consequently, it is alleged that the first and second defendants have
committed a breach of the terms and conditions of the licence agreement
and of the Bombay Rents, Hotel and Lodging House Rates Control Act,
1947; (iii) the Public Charitable Trust of which the plaintiffs are trustees
requires the premises bona fide for its use and occupation. The trust
addressed a notice dated 21st March, 1996 to all the three defendants
terminating the licence/tenancy and calling for the handing over of
vacant possession. In these circumstances, a decree for possession was
sought.
17. First defendant filed written statement resisting the Suit. First
plaintiff Smt. Pushpadevi Makharia is a sister of the first and second
defendants. According to the first and second defendant, petitioner
(third defendant) used to get bookings for the hotel from Mumbai.
Subsequently, first defendant filed affidavit setting out therein that third
defendant was permitted by the first and second defendants without
permission of the plaintiffs to carry on business. It was thereafter stated
that they have no objection if the Suit is decreed as prayed for by the
plaintiffs. Plaintiffs filed Purshis for deleting defendant No.3 on the
ground that first defendant had filed affidavit. Third defendant filed
written statement inter alia contending that she has been inducted as a
tenant in the suit property by the plaintiffs. She is a Director of the third
defendant. Defendants No.1 and 2 have colluded with the plaintiffs with
a view to evicting her. She is a necessary and proper party to the Suit.
She filed application under Order I, Rule 10 before the trial Court. The
learned trial Judge rejected the application. In paragraph 11, the learned
Single Judge referred to the decision of Razia Begum Vs. Anwar
Begum, AIR 1958 SC 886. In paragraph 13, decision of the Apex
Court in the case of Ramesh H. Kundanmal v. Municipal Corporation
of Greater Bombay, 1992 SCC (2) 524 was referred. In paragraph 17,
it was held that the petitioner (third defendant) had vital interest in the
subject matter of the suit and she would be affected by and be bound by
any decision that is arrived at the trial of the suit. Perusal of this decision
clearly shows that in that case, plaintiffs were landlords and defendant
No.3 claimed to be a tenant. It was the case of defendant No.3 that there
was collusion between plaintiffs and defendants No.1 and 2. In my
opinion, the said decision is not applicable to the fats of the present case.
18. Mr. Harit relied upon the decision of Ratan Lal (supra), and in
particular paragraph 44 thereof. In that case, the learned Single Judge of
Rajasthan High Court referred to the decisions of the Apex Court in - (a)
Dhannalal v. Kalawatibai, (2002) 6 SCC 16; (b) India Umbrella
Manufacturing Company v. Bhagabandei Agarwalla, (2004) 3 SCC
178 and (c) FGP Ltd. V. Saleh Hooseini Doctor, (2009) 10 SCC 223.
After referring to the decision in Sri Ram Pasricha (supra), wherein it
was observed in paragraph 27 that “jurisprudentially, it is not correct to
say that a co-owner of a property is not its owner. He owns every part of
the composite property along with others and it cannot be said that he is
only a part- owner or a fractional owner of the property. The position
will change only when partition takes place.” In the present case,
applicants have admittedly purchased half undivided share and Suit for
partition is pending. In my opinion, this decision really assists the case
of the plaintiff and does not support applicants herein.
19. Mr. Harit relied upon the decision in B. Valsala (supra), and in
particular paragraph 13 thereof. In that case, the question that was
considered was whether plaintiff can recover possession from the
defendants. It was observed that an exception to the rule above
mentioned has been made where the suing co-owner claims exclusive
title to the property in derogation or denial of the rights of the other coowners.
In such an event, the co-owner whose rights are denied or
against whose interest the plaintiff is suing is a necessary party to the
suit, and his absence will be fatal to the suit itself. In my opinion, the
said decision is also not applicable to the facts of the present case. At
the cost of repetition, applicants have already instituted Suit for partition
in this Court and the same is pending.
20. Mr. Harit relied upon the decision in Ranjitsingh Linga (supra),
and in particular paragraph 7 thereof. In paragraph 7, the learned Single
Judge has referred to the decision in Ramesh Hirachand Kundanmal
(supra). In that case, the Corporation had issued notice under Section
351 of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act to the petitioners. They
instituted Suit challenging the notice dated 17.09.1908 issued by the
Corporation. Second defendant filed Chamber Summons contending
that by a registered conveyance dated 31.10.2002, they have purchased
certain properties. They being the landlords and owners, are the
necessary party and as the demolition order was subject matter in the
Suit that would materially affect the right, title and interest in their
property. It is in that context, the learned Single Judge held that the
second respondent was a necessary party. The said decision is also not
applicable to the facts of the present case. As I have already held that
the Suit is essentially between landlord and tenants and one of the coowners
can maintain the Suit. In view thereof, I do not find that
applicants are either a necessary or a proper party.
21. As against this, Mr. Mooman relied upon the decision of this
Court in the case of Foolchand (supra) wherein also the learned Single
Judge also referred to the decision of Ramesh Hirachand Kundanmal
(supra) and held that co-owner is neither a necessary nor a proper party.
In the light of the decisions in Jainuddin's case (supra) referred
hereinabove, I am clearly of the opinion that one of the co-owners is
neither a necessary nor a proper party. The applicants, therefore, cannot
be impleaded in the Suit.
22. Mr. Harit submitted that the Revision application filed by the
plaintiff, itself, was not maintainable before the appellate Court. I find
substance in this submission. The question is whether plaintiff should
be relegated to institute separate Petition challenging the order passed
by the learned trial Judge, more so when plaintiff has instituted petitions
challenging the orders passed by the learned trial Judge impleading
applicants in the Suit. As the common questions of law and fact arise
between the parties, by common judgment and order, I am disposing of
these Petitions.
23. In the case of Surya Dev Rai Vs. Ram Chander Rai, (2003) 6
SCC 675, the Apex Court has dealt with powers of High Court under
Articles 226 and 227 of the Constitution of India. It is also held that
the power of superintendence so conferred on the High Court is
administrative as well as judicial, and is capable of being invoked at
the instance of any person aggrieved or may even be exercised suo
motu. The paramount consideration behind vesting such wide
power of superintendence in the High Court is paving the path of
justice and removing any obstacles therein. The power under
Article 227 is wider than the one conferred on the High Court by
Article 226 in the sense that the power of superintendence is not
subject to those technicalities of procedure or traditional fetters
which are to be found in certiorari jurisdiction. In exercise of
supervisory jurisdiction the High Court may not only quash or set
aside the impugned proceedings, judgment or order but it may also
make such directions as the facts and circumstances of the case may
warrant, may be by way of guiding the inferior court or tribunal as
to the manner in which it would now proceed further or afresh as
commended to or guided by the High Court. Supervisory
jurisdiction under Article 227 of the Constitution is exercised for
keeping the subordinate courts within the bounds of their
jurisdiction. When the subordinate Court has assumed a
jurisdiction which it does not have or has failed to exercise a
jurisdiction which it does have or the jurisdiction though available
is being exercised by the Court in a manner not permitted by law
and failure of justice or grave injustice has occasioned. The power to
issue a writ of certiorari and the supervisory jurisdiction are to be
exercised sparingly and only in appropriate cases where the judicial
conscience of the High Court dictates it to act lest a gross failure of
justice or grave injustice should occasion. (emphasis supplied)
24. Applying the tests laid down by the Apex Court in Surya Devi
Rai (supra), in my opinion, instead of relegating plaintiff to institute
separate petition challenging the order passed by the learned trial Judge,
this Court will exercise suo motu power for correcting the errors
committed by the trial Court. In the light of the aforesaid discussion, the
order passed by the learned trial Judge cannot be sustained and is liable
to be set aside and is accordingly set aside. Hence, Writ Petition
No.7506 of 2015 fails. Rule is discharged with no order as to costs.
25. This brings me to Writ Petitions filed by original plaintiffGyasuddin
Kifayatulla Zariwala. For the reasons recorded earlier, the
learned trial Judge was not justified in allowing the applications made
by the applicants under Order 1, Rule 10 of C.P.C. Hence, Writ
Petitions No. 10968 of 2014, 2888 of 2015 and 10967 of 2014 succeed.
Rule is made absolute. Impugned orders in these Petitions are set aside
and applications at (a) exhibit-31 in R.A.E.&R.Suit No.123/209 of
2008; (b) exhibit-28 in R.A.E.&R. Suit No.124/210 of 2008; and (c)
exhibit-70 in R.A.E.&R. Suit No.166/290 of 2004 stand dismissed. It is,
however, made clear that before entering into settlement with the
tenants, plaintiff will obtain leave of this Court in Suit No.947 of 2013
pending on the Original Side of this Court. Order accordingly.
(R. G. KETKAR, J.)
Print Page
the Suit is essentially between landlord and tenants and one of the coowners
can maintain the Suit. In view thereof, I do not find that
applicants are either a necessary or a proper party.
21. As against this, Mr. Mooman relied upon the decision of this
Court in the case of Foolchand (supra) wherein also the learned Single
Judge also referred to the decision of Ramesh Hirachand Kundanmal
(supra) and held that co-owner is neither a necessary nor a proper party.
In the light of the decisions in Jainuddin's case (supra) referred
hereinabove, I am clearly of the opinion that one of the co-owners is
neither a necessary nor a proper party. The applicants, therefore, cannot
be impleaded in the Suit.
IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUDICATURE AT MUMBAI
CIVIL APPELLATE JURISDICTION
WRIT PETITION NO.7506 OF 2015
M/s. Sirsiwala Realty Vs.Gyasuddin Kifayatulla Zariwala and others
CORAM : R. G. KETKAR, J.
DATE : OCTOBER 18, 2016
Heard Mr. Harit, learned Counsel for petitioners in W.P.No.7506
of 2015 and respondents No.3 to 6 in W.P.No.2888 of 2015 and
respondents No.2 to 5 in W.P.No.10967 of 2014 and W.P. No.10968 of
2014 and Mr. Mooman, learned Counsel for respondent No.1 in
W.P.No.7506 of 2015 and petitioner in W.P.No.2888 of 2015,
W.P.No.10967 of 2014 and W.P.No.10968 of 2014 at length.
2. Writ Petition No.7506 of 2015 is instituted by petitioners,
hereinafter referred to as 'applicants', challenging the judgment and
order dated 04.02.2015 passed by the Appellate Bench of the Small
Causes Court, Mumbai in Revision Application No.373 of 2014. By
that order, the appellate Court allowed the Revision Application filed by
the respondent No.1, hereinafter referred to as 'plaintiff', and quashed
and set aside the judgment and order dated 23.08.2014 passed by the
learned Judge presiding over Court Room No.9 of the Court of Small
Causes at Mumbai below exhibit-55 in R.A.E.Suit No.205/335 of 2001.
The learned trial Judge allowed the application made by the applicants
and directed them to be joined as plaintiffs No.2 to 5 in the Suit. The
appellate Court dismissed the application filed by the applicants adding
them as party.
3. Writ Petitions No. 10968 of 2014, 2888 of 2015 and 10967 of
2014 are instituted by the original plaintiff challenginga.
judgment and order dated 05.11.2014 passed by the learned
Judge, presiding over Court Room No.25 of the Court of Small Causes
at Mumbai below exhibit-28 in R.A.E.&R. Suit No.124/210 of 2008;
b. judgment and order dated 05.01.2015 passed by the learned
Judge presiding over Court Room No.12 of the Court of Small Causes at
Mumbai below exhibit-70 in R.A.E.&R. Suit No.166/290 of 2004; and
c. judgment and order dated 05.11.2014 passed by the learned
Judge presiding over Court Room No.25 of the Court of Small Causes at
Mumbai below exhibit-31 in R.A.E.&R. Suit No.123/209 of 2008,
respectively.
4. By these orders, the learned trial Judge allowed the applications
made by the respondents (for short 'applicants') in Writ Petitions No.
10968 of 2014, 2888 of 2015 and 10967 of 2014 under Order 1, Rule 10
of C.P.C. and directed the plaintiff to implead the respondents as party
defendants in the respective Suits. Since the common questions of law
and fact between the same parties arise in these Petitions, the same can
conveniently be disposed of by this common judgment.
5. In support of Writ Petition No.7506 of 2015, Mr. Harit submitted
that applicants have purchased half undivided share in the suit property
by a registered conveyance dated 11.12.2012 from the legal
representatives of the erstwhile owners. Applicants approached the
plaintiff for amicable partition of the property. As the plaintiff did not
accept the suggestion, applicants were constrained to institute Suit
No.947 of 2013 on the Original Side of this Court. He submitted that
during the pendency of that Suit, applicants took out Notice of Motion
No.23 of 2014 for appointment of Court Receiver and injunction
restraining the defendant (plaintiff herein) from creating third party
rights or handing over possession of the suit property. On 15.01.2014,
the learned Single Judge recorded the statement made on behalf of the
plaintiff herein that until further orders, he will not create any third party
rights or handover possession in respect of the suit property. By order
dated 27.02.2014, the learned Single Judge granted interim order in
terms of prayer clause (c) of the Motion and declined to appoint Court
Receiver in respect of the suit property. The learned Single Judge also
directed the plaintiff herein to maintain accounts in respect of the suit
property and shall file such accounts every six months in the Court with
a copy thereof to be furnished to the applicants' Advocate.
6. Mr. Harit submitted that aggrieved by this decision, applicants
and plaintiff preferred appeals before the Division Bench of this Court.
By order dated 10.04.2014, the appeals were dismissed reserving liberty
to the applicants to take out appropriate proceedings before the learned
Single Judge in the event of making out a case that a plaintiff herein is
not properly maintaining the accounts.
7. Mr. Harit submitted that plaintiff has instituted frivolous criminal
cases against the applicants. Some of these cases are withdrawn and
some are pending. He submitted that plaintiff has instituted as many as
11 Suits against the different tenants. The main object of the plaintiff in
instituting the Suit is to knock out money from these tenants. He
submitted that one of the tenants has lodged N.C. complaint against the
plaintiff herein raising that grievance. He submitted that the Suits
instituted by the plaintiff are with oblique motive and are not bonafide
proceedings. Plaintiff intends to enter into settlement with the tenants
for recovering the money from them.
8. Mr. Harit submitted that as the applicants have purchased half
undivided share in the suit property, they are necessary party. The
outcome of the Suits is bound to affect them adversely. He submitted
that as the outcome of the Suits is likely to affect the applicants, they are
required to be impleaded in the Suit. In support of this submission, he
relied upon the following decisions:
a. Sumita Pradipkumar Dixit Vs. Pushpadevi G. Makharia,
2002 (4) Bom.C.R. 249, and in particular paragraphs 11, 13, 14
and 17;
b. Ratan Lal Vs. Gopal passed by the learned Single Judge of
Rajasthan High Court - Jodhpur in Second Appeal No.237 of
2012 decided on 17.01.2014, and in particular paragraph 44
thereof;
c. B. Valsala Vs. Sundaram Nadar Bhaskaran, 1994 AIR (Ker)
164, and in particular paragraph 13 thereof; &
d. Ranjitsingh Linga Vs. Municipal Corporation of Greater
Mumbai, 2010 (4) Bom.C.R.363, and in particular paragraph 7
thereof.
9. Mr. Harit further submitted that the Courts below committed
serious error in entertaining the revision application. In fact, the order
passed by the learned trial Judge was purely a procedural order, not
affecting the substantive rights of the parties. Though the said
contention was advanced as also reliance was placed upon the Full
Bench decision of this Court in the case of Bhartiben Shah Vs. Gracy
Thomas, 2013(2) Mh.L.J. 25, and though the appellate Court also
observed in paragraph 9 of the impugned order that the order passed by
the trial Court is a procedural order under C.P.C., still, it directly affects
the substantial rights of the plaintiff as dominus litis. He, therefore,
submitted that the impugned order is liable to be set aside thereby
restoring the trial Court's order. Mr. Harit supported the orders
impugned in Writ Petitions No.10968 of 2014, 2888 of 2015 and 10967
of 2014.
10. On the other hand, Mr. Mooman supported the order impugned in
Writ Petition No.7605 of 2015 and submitted that the orders impugned
in Writ Petitions No.10968 of 2014, 2888 of 2015 and 10967 of 2014
are liable to be set aside. He submitted that basically, plaintiff has
instituted Suit against the tenant. The Suit is essentially between a
landlord and tenant. It is settled principle of law that one of the coowners
can maintain the Suit. He submitted that respondents are neither
a necessary nor a proper party. In support of his submissions, he relied
upon the following decisions:
a. Foolchand Vs. Shabbir Hussain, 1998 (1) Mh.L.J.429; &
b. Ramesh Hirachand Kundanmal Vs. Mun. Corp. of Gr.
Bombay, 1992 (3) Bom.C.R.110.
11. He further submitted that the apprehension of the applicants that
plaintiff will enter into settlement can be taken care of by putting
plaintiff to terms. In other words, he submitted that plaintiff will not
enter into settlement without obtaining leave from this Hon'ble Court in
Suit No.947 of 2000 pending on the Original Side of this Court. Mr.
Mooman submitted that if this Court is inclined to hold that the revision
filed by the plaintiff before the appellate Court is not maintainable,
plaintiff will file substantive Writ Petition challenging the order of the
trial Court. He submitted that in any case, the order of the trial Court
impleading applicants as plaintiffs is not sustainable. He submitted that
two sets of plaintiffs cannot prosecute the Suit through two different
lawyers.
12. I have considered the rival submissions advanced by the learned
Counsel appearing for the parties. I have also perused the material on
record. Prima facie, it is not in dispute at this stage that plaintiff is the
owner to the extent of 25% share, applicants are owners to the extent of
50% share and one more party is owner to the extent of 25% share.
Thus, plaintiff is one of the co-owners who has instituted Suits against
the tenants for eviction. In a Suit between landlord and tenant, whether
other co-owner is a necessary or a property party is the moot question.
Whether the presence of other co-owner is necessary for passing
effective decree so as to hold that the other co-owner is a necessary
party or whether it enables the Court to effectively adjudicate upon and
settle the controversy between the parties so as to hold that the other coowner
is a proper party.
13. In my opinion, in a Suit for eviction between landlord and tenant,
other co-owners presence is not necessary. Having regard to the fact
that the jurisdiction of the Small Causes Court is regulated by the
provisions of Section 33 of the Maharashtra Rent Control Act, 1999 (for
short 'Act'), and in particular Section 35 lays down that nothing
contained in Sections 33 and 34 shall be deemed to bar a party to a suit,
proceeding or appeal mentioned therein in which a question of title to
premises arises and is determined, from suing in a competent court to
establish his title to such premises. Thus, even if issue of title is
determined in a Suit between landlord and tenant, a party therein is not
precluded from approaching a competent Court to establish its title. The
findings recorded by the Small Causes Court in a limited jurisdiction
will not operate as res judicata against that party.
14. In the case of Jainuddin Vs. Sitaram, 1981 Mh.L.J. 498, the Suit
was instituted under Sections 12 and 13 of the Bombay Rent Act. In
that Suit, defendant no.2 was the co-owner of the plaintiff. Defendant
no.2 filed his written statement contending inter alia that the notice
terminating tenancy of the defendant no.1-tenant was not legal. He also
opposed the plaintiff's suit for eviction on the ground of bonafide
requirement. It was urged that notice of termination ought to have
issued by all the owners. The learned single Judge of this Court
considered the decisions of the Apex Court in (1) Sri Ram Pasricha Vs.
Jagannath, AIR 1976 SC 2335 and (2) Smt. Kanta Goyal Vs. B. P.
Pathak, AIR 1977 SC 1599. In paragraph 12, the submissions
advanced on behalf of the plaintiff were recorded. It was submitted that
in a suit for eviction against the tenant by the co-owner the interest of
the other co-owners cannot be affected in any way. If one of the coowners
files a suit against the tenant and obtains possession of the suit
premises, the premises encumbered by induction of the tenant is
removed if the plaintiff's suit succeeds. If a co-owner is not satisfied
with a decree for exclusive possession in favour of one of the coowners,
his remedy is only to file a separate suit for partition and get his
share demarcated. It would be dangerous proposition that in cases of this
type, a co-owner as a defendant can oppose the suit of one of the coowners
for possession of the suit premises claiming a decree for eviction
of the tenant. After recording the submissions of the plaintiff, the
learned Single Judge observed that there is a considerable substance in
those submissions. After referring to the decision of the apex Court in
Ram Pasricha (supra) and Kanta Goel (supra), it was observed that
one of the co-owners can file a suit for eviction against the tenant. The
landlord who had let out his premises to the tenant and heirs succeeded
to his estate and one of the co-owners files a suit for eviction against the
tenant on the ground of bonafide requirement for himself, his mother or
married brother, such a suit shall be maintainable and decree for
possession in favour of one of the co-owners shall be passed. In
paragraph 13 it was observed thus:
“13. I am unable to appreciate the submission of Shri Rane that
in case where the co-owners does not give his consent for
institution of the suit by one of the co-owners and resists such a
suit, if filed, no decree on the ground of bona fide requirement for
use and occupation can be passed. In my view, having regard to
the observations made by the Supreme Court in the cases referred
to above, the co-owner may be added as a party but he cannot be
considered a necessary party to the suit by one of the co-owners.
He cannot resists the suit of the co-owner and contend that no
decree can be passed in favour of the co-owner on any of the
grounds given in the Rent Act. Take for instance, the tenant is
damaging the suit premises, causing waste to it, sub-letting the
premises or demolishing the same and without the permission of
the landlord altering the structure or constructing a permanent
structure and if a co-owner files a suit on the grounds mentioned
above against the tenant for eviction, how the co-owner can
oppose such a suit? If one of the co-owners is trying to remove the
encumbrance on the tenanted premises within the ambit of the
provisions of the Rent Act, then the decree for eviction in any way
will not be inconsistent with, or contrary to the interest of the coowners.
In such a suit if a co-owner is added as a party, no relief
can be asked against him. If the co-owner obtains possession in
pursuance of the decree passed in his favour by the competent
Court, his possession will be deemed to be the possession on
behalf of all the co-owners. And if the co-owner is not happy with
possession of the other co-owners, his remedy is only to file a
separate suit for petition and possession and get his share in a
proper proceedings democrated. Shri Rane has no disputed that the
co-owners can file a suit for bona fide requirement for his use and
occupation of the suit premises for himself or for any member of
his family. However his grievance is that if a co-owner opposes
such suit, no decree for exclusive possession in favour of one of
the co-owners can be passed. It is rather not possible to accept this
submission of Shri Rane. Because in such a suit filed by one of the
co-owners for eviction, it cannot be detrimental to the interest of
the other co-owners. Take a case where the tenant does not pay
arrears of rent and a suit is filed for recovery of arrears of rent
making the co-owners as party defendant, can he oppose the said
suit on the round that the rent should not be paid to the co-owners.
Take a case, where a suit for eviction is opposed on the ground of
causing damage to the building let out to a tenant, or causing
waste of some kind, can the co-owners join the hands with the
tenant to oppose the suit contending that the decree should not be
passed in favour of co-owners. It will be dangerous proposition to
allow the co-owners to oppose such a suit for a eviction by another
co-owners or any grounds whatsoever, joining the hands with
recalcitrant tenant and refuse to give consent for institution of the
suit. In these circumstances and having regard to the observations
made by the Supreme Court in the two cases referred to above, the
contention of Shri Rane cannot be accepted.”
15. The decision in Jainuddin's case (supra) was subsequently
followed by the learned Single Judge in Rahimtulla Abdul Rahiman
Vs. Chandrakant, AIR 1982 BOMBAY 282, and in particular
paragraph 7. The decision of the learned Single Judge in Jainuddin's
case (supra) was quoted with the approval by the Division Bench in
Hiralal Vs. Namdeo, 1983(2) Bom.C.R.71. The decision in Jainuddin
(supra) was also followed in V. Prabha & Co. Private Limited Vs.
Kuljit Singh Chadha, 2007 (2) ALL M.R. 352. Thus, the issue whether
one of the co-owners can maintain the Suit inspite of other co-owners
objecting to it is no longer res integra as far as this Court is concerned.
That apart, if one of the co-owners objects to filing of the Suit by
another co-owner, indirectly the rights of the co-owners who intend to
institute the Suit or already instituted the Suit will be curtailed. In other
words, such co-owners will not be entitled to exercise right incidental to
the right of ownership of the property. In such situation, as observed by
the learned Single Judge in Jainuddin's case (supra), remedy of other
co-owner/s is to institute Suit for partition and separate possession.
Thus, insofar as this Court is concerned, the issue is no longer res
integra. In the present case, Suit for partition is pending in this Court.
16. Mr. Harit relied upon decision in Sumita Pradipkumar Dixit
(supra), and in particular paragraphs 11, 13, 14 and 17 thereof. In that
case, respondents No.1 to 4 in their capacity as trustees of a registered
public charitable trust had instituted suit against respondents No.5 to 7
(defendants No.1 to 3) for recovery of possession of the suit premises.
By agreement dated 21.10.1970, the suit property was given on licence
to the first defendant for running a hotel. On 06.02.1976, it was alleged
that the premises were given on licence to the second defendant for
conducting a hotel. The first and second defendants started running a
hotel by name and style 'Satkar'. The Suit was instituted on three
grounds namely, (i) the defendants have carried out unauthorised
permanent alterations in the suit property; (ii) since 1998, the first and
second defendants stopped running the hotel business and inducted the
third defendant in the suit property "as a sub-licence tenant".
Consequently, it is alleged that the first and second defendants have
committed a breach of the terms and conditions of the licence agreement
and of the Bombay Rents, Hotel and Lodging House Rates Control Act,
1947; (iii) the Public Charitable Trust of which the plaintiffs are trustees
requires the premises bona fide for its use and occupation. The trust
addressed a notice dated 21st March, 1996 to all the three defendants
terminating the licence/tenancy and calling for the handing over of
vacant possession. In these circumstances, a decree for possession was
sought.
17. First defendant filed written statement resisting the Suit. First
plaintiff Smt. Pushpadevi Makharia is a sister of the first and second
defendants. According to the first and second defendant, petitioner
(third defendant) used to get bookings for the hotel from Mumbai.
Subsequently, first defendant filed affidavit setting out therein that third
defendant was permitted by the first and second defendants without
permission of the plaintiffs to carry on business. It was thereafter stated
that they have no objection if the Suit is decreed as prayed for by the
plaintiffs. Plaintiffs filed Purshis for deleting defendant No.3 on the
ground that first defendant had filed affidavit. Third defendant filed
written statement inter alia contending that she has been inducted as a
tenant in the suit property by the plaintiffs. She is a Director of the third
defendant. Defendants No.1 and 2 have colluded with the plaintiffs with
a view to evicting her. She is a necessary and proper party to the Suit.
She filed application under Order I, Rule 10 before the trial Court. The
learned trial Judge rejected the application. In paragraph 11, the learned
Single Judge referred to the decision of Razia Begum Vs. Anwar
Begum, AIR 1958 SC 886. In paragraph 13, decision of the Apex
Court in the case of Ramesh H. Kundanmal v. Municipal Corporation
of Greater Bombay, 1992 SCC (2) 524 was referred. In paragraph 17,
it was held that the petitioner (third defendant) had vital interest in the
subject matter of the suit and she would be affected by and be bound by
any decision that is arrived at the trial of the suit. Perusal of this decision
clearly shows that in that case, plaintiffs were landlords and defendant
No.3 claimed to be a tenant. It was the case of defendant No.3 that there
was collusion between plaintiffs and defendants No.1 and 2. In my
opinion, the said decision is not applicable to the fats of the present case.
18. Mr. Harit relied upon the decision of Ratan Lal (supra), and in
particular paragraph 44 thereof. In that case, the learned Single Judge of
Rajasthan High Court referred to the decisions of the Apex Court in - (a)
Dhannalal v. Kalawatibai, (2002) 6 SCC 16; (b) India Umbrella
Manufacturing Company v. Bhagabandei Agarwalla, (2004) 3 SCC
178 and (c) FGP Ltd. V. Saleh Hooseini Doctor, (2009) 10 SCC 223.
After referring to the decision in Sri Ram Pasricha (supra), wherein it
was observed in paragraph 27 that “jurisprudentially, it is not correct to
say that a co-owner of a property is not its owner. He owns every part of
the composite property along with others and it cannot be said that he is
only a part- owner or a fractional owner of the property. The position
will change only when partition takes place.” In the present case,
applicants have admittedly purchased half undivided share and Suit for
partition is pending. In my opinion, this decision really assists the case
of the plaintiff and does not support applicants herein.
19. Mr. Harit relied upon the decision in B. Valsala (supra), and in
particular paragraph 13 thereof. In that case, the question that was
considered was whether plaintiff can recover possession from the
defendants. It was observed that an exception to the rule above
mentioned has been made where the suing co-owner claims exclusive
title to the property in derogation or denial of the rights of the other coowners.
In such an event, the co-owner whose rights are denied or
against whose interest the plaintiff is suing is a necessary party to the
suit, and his absence will be fatal to the suit itself. In my opinion, the
said decision is also not applicable to the facts of the present case. At
the cost of repetition, applicants have already instituted Suit for partition
in this Court and the same is pending.
20. Mr. Harit relied upon the decision in Ranjitsingh Linga (supra),
and in particular paragraph 7 thereof. In paragraph 7, the learned Single
Judge has referred to the decision in Ramesh Hirachand Kundanmal
(supra). In that case, the Corporation had issued notice under Section
351 of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act to the petitioners. They
instituted Suit challenging the notice dated 17.09.1908 issued by the
Corporation. Second defendant filed Chamber Summons contending
that by a registered conveyance dated 31.10.2002, they have purchased
certain properties. They being the landlords and owners, are the
necessary party and as the demolition order was subject matter in the
Suit that would materially affect the right, title and interest in their
property. It is in that context, the learned Single Judge held that the
second respondent was a necessary party. The said decision is also not
applicable to the facts of the present case. As I have already held that
the Suit is essentially between landlord and tenants and one of the coowners
can maintain the Suit. In view thereof, I do not find that
applicants are either a necessary or a proper party.
21. As against this, Mr. Mooman relied upon the decision of this
Court in the case of Foolchand (supra) wherein also the learned Single
Judge also referred to the decision of Ramesh Hirachand Kundanmal
(supra) and held that co-owner is neither a necessary nor a proper party.
In the light of the decisions in Jainuddin's case (supra) referred
hereinabove, I am clearly of the opinion that one of the co-owners is
neither a necessary nor a proper party. The applicants, therefore, cannot
be impleaded in the Suit.
22. Mr. Harit submitted that the Revision application filed by the
plaintiff, itself, was not maintainable before the appellate Court. I find
substance in this submission. The question is whether plaintiff should
be relegated to institute separate Petition challenging the order passed
by the learned trial Judge, more so when plaintiff has instituted petitions
challenging the orders passed by the learned trial Judge impleading
applicants in the Suit. As the common questions of law and fact arise
between the parties, by common judgment and order, I am disposing of
these Petitions.
23. In the case of Surya Dev Rai Vs. Ram Chander Rai, (2003) 6
SCC 675, the Apex Court has dealt with powers of High Court under
Articles 226 and 227 of the Constitution of India. It is also held that
the power of superintendence so conferred on the High Court is
administrative as well as judicial, and is capable of being invoked at
the instance of any person aggrieved or may even be exercised suo
motu. The paramount consideration behind vesting such wide
power of superintendence in the High Court is paving the path of
justice and removing any obstacles therein. The power under
Article 227 is wider than the one conferred on the High Court by
Article 226 in the sense that the power of superintendence is not
subject to those technicalities of procedure or traditional fetters
which are to be found in certiorari jurisdiction. In exercise of
supervisory jurisdiction the High Court may not only quash or set
aside the impugned proceedings, judgment or order but it may also
make such directions as the facts and circumstances of the case may
warrant, may be by way of guiding the inferior court or tribunal as
to the manner in which it would now proceed further or afresh as
commended to or guided by the High Court. Supervisory
jurisdiction under Article 227 of the Constitution is exercised for
keeping the subordinate courts within the bounds of their
jurisdiction. When the subordinate Court has assumed a
jurisdiction which it does not have or has failed to exercise a
jurisdiction which it does have or the jurisdiction though available
is being exercised by the Court in a manner not permitted by law
and failure of justice or grave injustice has occasioned. The power to
issue a writ of certiorari and the supervisory jurisdiction are to be
exercised sparingly and only in appropriate cases where the judicial
conscience of the High Court dictates it to act lest a gross failure of
justice or grave injustice should occasion. (emphasis supplied)
24. Applying the tests laid down by the Apex Court in Surya Devi
Rai (supra), in my opinion, instead of relegating plaintiff to institute
separate petition challenging the order passed by the learned trial Judge,
this Court will exercise suo motu power for correcting the errors
committed by the trial Court. In the light of the aforesaid discussion, the
order passed by the learned trial Judge cannot be sustained and is liable
to be set aside and is accordingly set aside. Hence, Writ Petition
No.7506 of 2015 fails. Rule is discharged with no order as to costs.
25. This brings me to Writ Petitions filed by original plaintiffGyasuddin
Kifayatulla Zariwala. For the reasons recorded earlier, the
learned trial Judge was not justified in allowing the applications made
by the applicants under Order 1, Rule 10 of C.P.C. Hence, Writ
Petitions No. 10968 of 2014, 2888 of 2015 and 10967 of 2014 succeed.
Rule is made absolute. Impugned orders in these Petitions are set aside
and applications at (a) exhibit-31 in R.A.E.&R.Suit No.123/209 of
2008; (b) exhibit-28 in R.A.E.&R. Suit No.124/210 of 2008; and (c)
exhibit-70 in R.A.E.&R. Suit No.166/290 of 2004 stand dismissed. It is,
however, made clear that before entering into settlement with the
tenants, plaintiff will obtain leave of this Court in Suit No.947 of 2013
pending on the Original Side of this Court. Order accordingly.
(R. G. KETKAR, J.)
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