LACHMAN SINGH vs KIRPA SINGH & OTHERS

The Supreme Court held that under Section 15(1) of the Hindu Succession Act, 1956, a step-son does not inherit simultaneously with a son from the same mother upon the intestate death of a female. The Court clarified that the term 'sons' in this context does not include step-sons, who are categorized under the heirs of the husband. The ruling emphasized that the law reflects traditional notions of kinship, and a step-son's claim is subordinate to that of a biological son, thereby affirming the trial court's decree in favor of Kirpa Singh for only a 1/3rd share of the property.