SHIVRAM ANAND SHIROOR vs RADHABAI SHANTRAM KOWSHIK AND ANOTHER

The Supreme Court held that under Section 13 A-1 of the Bombay Rent Hotel and Lodging House Rates Control Act, 1947, a retired member of the armed forces can seek eviction of a tenant on the grounds of bona fide requirement, even if the tenant was in occupation when the landlord became the owner. The Court emphasized that the Act is welfare legislation aimed at protecting tenants, and thus should be interpreted liberally to fulfill its objectives. The High Court's decision to deny eviction was overturned, affirming the appellant's right to regain possession of the flat.