Yes, but only if you can prove continuous readiness and willingness to perform your part of the contract. In Habban Shah v. Sheruddin [2026 INSC 451] and Jayamma case [2026 INSC 651], the Supreme Court clarified that missing a deadline or filing late does not automatically bar relief. However, if you fail to show financial capacity and genuine intent at the relevant time, the decree or claim becomes inexecutable.

A lease transfers a legal interest in immovable property and grants exclusive possession for a fixed term with rent, whereas a licence merely gives permission to use property without transferring any interest. The Supreme Court in Associated Hotels of India Ltd. v. R.N. Kapoor (AIR 1959 SC 1262) held that the real test is whether exclusive possession is given: if yes, it is a lease; if not, it is a licence. Similarly, in Rajbir Kaur v. S. Chhokar (AIR 1988 SC 1845), the Court reiterated that substance prevails over labels — even if an agreement is called a “licence,” if it grants exclusive possession, it will be treated as a lease.