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  • Order XXI Rule 97 CPC - Enquiry Requirement The adjudicatory process under Order XXI Rule 97(2) involves a specific enquiry by the court to determine the rights, title, and interest in the property claimed by the objector. The executing court is mandated to conduct a limited enquiry before deciding on objections to the execution of a decree, especially when an application is filed under Rules 97 and 98, read with Section 151 CPC. Several sources emphasize that the court must hold an enquiry to ascertain the objector's interest and the validity of their claim before dismissing or accepting such applications ["2022 Supreme(Online)(Kar) 49089"], ["2025 Supreme(Online)(Kar) 24277"], ["2022 Supreme(Online)(MAD) 6877"], ["2023 Supreme(Online)(KAR) 15655"].

  • Scope of Enquiry and Procedure The courts are required to follow the procedure under Order XXI Rules 97 to 101, which includes conducting an enquiry and recording findings regarding the objector's interest. Orders passed without such an enquiry are considered contrary to law and can be challenged. The enquiry involves determining whether the objector has a genuine interest in the property and whether their objections are valid, often requiring a mini-trial within the execution proceedings ["2022 Supreme(Online)(Kar) 49089"], ["2022 Supreme(Online)(MAD) 6877"], ["2023 Supreme(Online)(KAR) 15655"].

  • Order as Decree and Appealability An order rejecting an application under Order XXI Rule 97, after proper enquiry, can be treated as a decree under Order XXI Rule 103, making it appealable. Conversely, if no enquiry is conducted, such orders may be invalid or non-appealable. The law mandates that the order must be based on an enquiry to be deemed a decree and subject to appeal ["2025 Supreme(Online)(Kar) 24277"], ["2022 Supreme(Online)(MAD) 6877"], ["2023 Supreme(Online)(KAR) 15655"].

  • Exceptions and Limitations Certain applications, such as those by third parties pendente lite or transferees, may be barred under Rule 102 of Order XXI, if the application is not maintainable because the third party's interest is governed by lis pendens and they lack a direct interest in the property at that stage. In such cases, the court may dismiss or set aside the application without a detailed enquiry ["

    Madan Waman Chodankar VS Keshav Malik Hardware - Bombay

    "], ["2025 Supreme(Online)(Kar) 24277"], ["2023 Supreme(Online)(KAR) 15655"].
  • Legal Consequences of Non-Compliance Failure to conduct a proper enquiry when required, or dismissing applications under Order XXI Rule 97 without such enquiry, renders the order illegal and subject to challenge via writ petitions or appeals. The Supreme Court has reiterated that the procedure under Order XXI must be strictly followed, and orders passed without inquiry are contrary to law ["2025 Supreme(Online)(Kar) 24277"], ["2022 Supreme(Online)(MAD) 6877"].

Analysis and Conclusion

Under Order XXI Rule 97, the court must conduct a limited enquiry to determine the validity of objections raised by a third party or objector regarding execution proceedings. This enquiry ensures that the rights and interests of all parties are fairly examined before any order is passed. Orders without such an enquiry are deemed illegal and can be challenged. The law also specifies that orders based on proper enquiry are treated as decrees and are appealable. Exceptions exist for third-party transferees pendente lite, where the application may be barred under Rule 102. Overall, strict adherence to the enquiry process under Order XXI Rules 97 to 101 is essential to uphold the legality and fairness of execution proceedings.

Adjudication of Resistance to Execution Proceedings via Order XXI Rule 97 of the CPC

Order XXI Rule 97 CPC: Resolving Resistance and Obstruction in Execution Proceedings

Executing a court decree for possession of immovable property can be challenging when faced with resistance or obstruction. Whether from the judgment debtor, third parties, or strangers claiming rights, such hurdles can delay justice. Enter Order XXI Rule 97 of the Code of Civil Procedure (CPC), 1908—a statutory remedy designed to address these issues efficiently within the execution framework itself.

This blog explores the nature, scope, procedure, and key judicial interpretations of applications under Order XXI Rule 97 CPC. It provides clarity on when such applications must be prioritized, how courts adjudicate disputes, and limitations to watch for. While general principles are discussed, consult a legal professional for case-specific advice.

What is an Application Under Order XXI Rule 97 CPC?

Order XXI Rule 97 CPC states: Resistance or obstruction to possession of immovable property.—(1) Where the holder of a decree for the possession of immovable property or the purchaser of any such property sold in execution of a decree is resisted or obstructed by any person obtaining possession of the property, he may make an application to the Court complaining of such resistance or obstruction.2025 0 Supreme(Raj) 1280

This provision empowers the decree-holder (or auction purchaser) to seek court intervention when possession is resisted. Importantly, it's not limited to judgment debtors; third parties, strangers, or even those claiming independent rights can be involved 2025 0 Supreme(SC) 461 2014 0 Supreme(Ker) 238.

The process is a comprehensive, quasi-judicial adjudication within execution proceedings, determining all questions relating to right, title, or interest in the property between parties or their representatives. It's deemed a complete code, avoiding separate suits and preventing multiplicity of proceedings 2025 0 Supreme(SC) 461 2014 0 Supreme(Ker) 238.

Key Features of Rule 97 Applications

Procedure and Court's Role in Adjudication

Upon filing, the executing court must proceed to adjudicate under Rule 97(2). Rule 101 mandates determining all relevant questions arising between parties, including title disputes—no separate suit required 2022 1 Supreme 287.

In BDA v. Decree Holder ([

#CPCLaw, #Order21Rule97, #ExecutionProceedings
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