By means of this petition, the petitioners have sought writ in the nature of certiorari quashing the order dated 18.12.1999 (copy Annexure-6 to the writ petition), passed by respondent No. 1 i.e. Additional District Magistrate (E)/Rent Control and Eviction Officer (for short RCEO), rejecting the release application of the landlord, and order dated 25.01.2000 (copy Annexure-8 to the writ petition), passed by said authority, whereby building known as Standard Hotel has been allotted to Bhupal Singh Bhakuni (respondent No. 2). A mandamus has also been sought directing the respondents to handover immediate possession of House No. 166-67, Upper Floor, Standard Hotel, Mallital, Nainital.

2. Heard learned counsel for the parties and perused the affidavit, counter affidavit and rejoinder affidavit filed on the record.

Facts of the Case :

3. Brief facts of the case are that petitioners are landlords of building known as Standard Hotel, bearing Municipal Board No. 166-67 (Upper Storey), Mallital, Nainital. Previously, respondent No. 3 Joseph Menzes and his sister were tenants in said accommodation, after death of their mother (original tenant). Proceedings were initiated by Competen