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Issues: Mortgage redemption terms interpretation, validity of unregistered document as evidence, nature of mortgage transaction, compensation for withdrawn property from security.
Mortgage Redemption Terms Interpretation: The case involved a dispute over the terms and conditions for the redemption of a mortgage. The appellant argued that the rights of the parties should be governed by the provisions of the mortgage deed of 1880, which stated that the profits of the mortgaged property belonged to the mortgagee in lieu of interest. However, the High Court held that the mortgage was intended to be a simple mortgage carrying interest at 6% per annum, based on preliminary negotiations and a contemporaneous lease agreement. The High Court's decision was influenced by the favorable terms of the lease and the mortgagor's default in payments. Ultimately, the Privy Council agreed with the High Court's interpretation, emphasizing that it was for the mortgagor to decide the best course of action. Validity of Unregistered Document as Evidence: The mortgagor contended that an unregistered document, a letter or rukka, dated June 11, 1881, outlined an agreement between the parties regarding the property's rents and profits. While the Subordinate Judge deemed the document a forgery, the High Court considered it genuine. However, the Privy Council highlighted that under the Registration Act, such unregistered documents are inadmissible as evidence. The Council did not need to determine the document's authenticity but emphasized its inadmissibility. Nature of Mortgage Transaction: The mortgage in question was for a sum of Rs. 70,000 for eight years, with the mortgage deed stating that the profits of the property would belong to the mortgagee in place of interest. The appellant relied on this provision, but the High Court viewed the mortgage as a simple one carrying interest. The Council agreed with the High Court that the mortgage and lease were part of the same transaction, finding no inconsistency between the two instruments. The Council also noted the competitive nature of money-lenders seeking security on zamindari property, explaining the seemingly favorable terms of the initial mortgage transaction. Compensation for Withdrawn Property from Security: The mortgagee had claimed damages for a portion of the property withdrawn from the security due to a successful claim by the mortgagor's sister. The Subordinate Judge rejected this claim, stating that the mortgagee was aware of the property's circumstances when taking security. The Council concurred, noting that the Transfer of Property Act's relevant section could not apply retroactively to a mortgage executed before the Act's enactment. Consequently, the Council allowed the appeals, discharged the High Court's orders, and restored the Subordinate Judge's order, with the respondent directed to pay the costs of the appeals.
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