What is Mesne Profits?

Mesne profits refer to the compensation payable by a person who is in wrongful possession of immovable property to the lawful owner. It represents the profits the owner could have earned if the property had not been illegally occupied.

The Civil Procedure Code defines mesne profits as profits actually received or which could have been received with ordinary diligence, along with interest. The Court has said that mesne profits aim to compensate the owner for loss caused by unlawful possession.

Mesne profits are commonly claimed in suits for possession, especially in landlord-tenant and property disputes.

The amount depends on factors such as market rent, nature of the property, and period of wrongful occupation.