Rule 1 of CPC : Rule 1: Original documents to be produced at or before the settlement of issues.

Explanation using Example

Example 1:

Scenario: Property Dispute

Ravi files a lawsuit against his neighbor, Suresh, claiming that Suresh has encroached on his land. Ravi submits a plaint (formal written statement) to the court, including copies of his property deed, land survey maps, and previous correspondence with Suresh. According to Rule 1 of Order XIII of the Code of Civil Procedure 1908, Ravi must produce the original property deed and land survey maps at or before the settlement of issues in the court.

During the settlement of issues, Ravi's lawyer presents the original documents to the court, along with an accurate list of these documents as directed by the High Court. The court receives these documents and proceeds with the case. However, Ravi's lawyer also has some additional documents to use for cross-examining Suresh's witnesses, which do not need to be produced at this stage as per sub-rule (3).

Example 2:

Scenario: Breach of Contract

Meera sues a construction company for failing to complete her house as per the agreed contract. She files a written statement with the court, attaching copies of the signed contract, payment receipts, and email communications with the company. According to Rule 1 of Order XIII of the Code of Civil Procedure 1908, Meera must produce the original signed contract and payment receipts at or before the settlement of issues.

At the settlement of issues, Meera's lawyer presents the original signed contract and payment receipts to the court, along with an accurate list of these documents as required by the High Court's format. The court accepts these documents and moves forward with the case. Meera's lawyer also has some documents to refresh the memory of a witness, which do not need to be produced at this stage as per sub-rule (3).