EMC STEEL LIMITED, CALCUTTA vs UNION OF INDIA AND ANR.

The Supreme Court upheld the Delhi High Court's interpretation of Section 14-D of the Delhi Rent Control Act, 1958, allowing a widow-landlady to claim possession of premises irrespective of whether they were let out before or after her husband's death. The Court emphasized that the provision aims to protect vulnerable widows and is permissible under Article 15(3) of the Constitution. The Court clarified that the widow can only avail of this benefit once and must demonstrate a bona fide need for the premises, thereby ensuring the provision is not abused.