Annaya Kocha Shetty (Dead) Through L.Rs. vs. Laxmibai Narayan Satose Since Deceased through L.Rs. and Ors. (08.04.2025 – SC)

The Supreme Court of India addressed whether Annaya Kocha Shetty, through his legal representatives, was a deemed tenant under Section 15A of the Bombay Rent Act for premises used to conduct a hotel business, based on an agreement dated 16.08.1967 with Laxmibai Narayan Satose. The Court found that the agreement was for conducting business, not a leave and license arrangement, as evidenced by the terms and the payment of royalties, thus excluding the application of Section 15A. The Court upheld the appellate bench and High Court’s decisions, dismissing the appeal and ordering costs of Rs. 1,00,000 to be paid to Defendant No. 1.