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

§ 631. Defendants. Where the complaint demands judgment for the\nimmediate possession of the property, if the property is actually\noccupied, the occupant shall be made defendant in the action. If it is\nnot so occupied, the action shall be brought against some person\nexercising acts of ownership thereupon, or claiming title thereto or an\ninterest therein, at the time of the commencement of the action. Any\nperson claiming title to, or the right to the possession of, the real\nproperty sought to be recovered, as landlord, remainderman, reversioner,\nor otherwise adversely to the plaintiff, may be joined as defendant.\n