KOCHAN KANI KUNJURAMAN KANI vs MATHEVAN KANI SANKARAN KANI

The Supreme Court addressed the legal heirship of Kochan Kani, determining that the appellant, Kunjuraman Kani, claimed to be the legal heir under the Makkathayee system, while the respondent, Mathevan Kani, asserted rights under the Marumakkathayam system. The Court held that the customary law applicable to the Kanikkars tribe was Marumakkathayam, affirming the Kerala High Court's decision that favored the respondent's claim to the estate. Consequently, the appeals by the appellant were dismissed, upholding the lower court's rulings.