In Brief
This appeal challenged the constitutionality of a provision in the Punjab Religious Premises and Land Act that excludes religious institutions from rent control laws. The appellant argued this created an unjust classification violating equal protection. The Supreme Court held that religious institutions, like government, serve public purposes and can reasonably be excluded from rent control legislation. A person occupies religious premises lawfully if they hold valid grants, leases, or allotments; unauthorised occupation arises only when such terms are breached or periods expire. Appellate and writ review remain available, protecting tenant interests.
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