N.Y. Real Property Actions & Proceedings Law § 631: Defendants

§ 631. Defendants. Where the complaint demands judgment for the

immediate possession of the property, if the property is actually

occupied, the occupant shall be made defendant in the action. If it is

not so occupied, the action shall be brought against some person

exercising acts of ownership thereupon, or claiming title thereto or an

interest therein, at the time of the commencement of the action. Any

person claiming title to, or the right to the possession of, the real

property sought to be recovered, as landlord, remainderman, reversioner,

or otherwise adversely to the plaintiff, may be joined as defendant.