RAMESHWAR AND ORS. vs JOT RAM & ORS.

The Supreme Court held that under Section 18(1) of the Punjab Security of Land Tenures Act, 1953, a tenant becomes the owner of the land upon depositing the first installment of the purchase price, regardless of subsequent changes in the landowner's status. The court emphasized that vested rights cannot be negated by later events unless a change in law occurs. The appeal was dismissed, affirming that the tenants had acquired ownership rights that were not affected by the death of the landlord during the appeal process.