Mohamed Abdeen Mohamed Alavi v. Seeni Muthuraj – 321/98-2017

In the case between Mohamed Abdeen Mohamed Alavi and others (Plaintiffs/Appellants) and Seeni Muthuraj (Defendant/Respondent), the court addressed whether the disputed premises fell within the protection of the Rent Act, No. 7 of 1972, given that the structure was erected by the Defendant without municipal approval or a certificate of conformity. It was determined on appeal that tenancy rights and Rent Act protections cannot arise from a contract tainted by statutory illegality, specifically where a structure is built and let in contravention of statutory requirements. Legal authorities including relevant case law were applied, and emphasis was placed on the principle that statutory non-compliance invalidates the creation of lawful tenancy rights. The appellate court allowed the appeal, se