Elderly Tenant Granted Time Till 2025 to Vacate, Ensuring Peaceful Resolution Under Rent Control Act: Supreme Court Resolves Landlord-Tenant Dispute

In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court of India has provided a resolution to a long-standing landlord-tenant dispute under the Delhi Rent Control Act, 1995. The Court, in its decision dated 23rd February 2024, has granted an elderly tenant, aged 82, time until 28th February 2025 to vacate the premises, ensuring compliance with the Rent Control Act and considering humanitarian grounds.

The case, involving the petitioners (landlords) and the respondent (tenant), pertains to a property dispute over Bungalow No.97, Ground Floor, Sunder Nagar, New Delhi. The tenant, occupying under a lease dated 01.10.1972, was paying a monthly rent of Rs. 2,000, later enhanced to Rs. 3,328. The landlords, a Trust, sought ejectment of the tenant under the Rent Control Act.

Justice Sanjay Karol, in his judgment, noted the amicable resolution reached by both parties. The tenant agreed to the ejectment order, with the Court considering the tenant's age and bereavement due to COVID-19 for granting extended time to vacate. The Court emphasized the tenant's obligations to maintain the property, avoid unauthorized constructions, and clear all statutory dues before vacating. It also highlighted the landlord's responsibility to not hinder the tenant's peaceful occupation.

The Supreme Court disposed of the petition based on the settlement terms agreed upon by the parties. The Court directed the tenant to clear all rent arrears and continue paying the monthly rent until possession is handed over. It also allowed the landlord to initiate legal and contempt proceedings in case of violation of terms by the tenant. All litigation related to the premises was ordered to be closed.

Date of Decision: 23rd February 2024

SWAMI GOVERDHAN RANGACHARIJI & ORS. VERSUS M/S. A.J. PRINTERS