Can interrogatories be filed before plaintiff’s cross-examination begins in court?

Can the court’s permission to deliver interrogatories (under Order XI, CPC) to the opposite parties (defendants) be sought before the cross-examination of the plaintiff begins? Can such permission be sought at this stage, or should it have been obtained earlier in the trial? If it should have been done earlier, even though the option of putting similar questions during cross-examination is available, is there still any way to avail the option of delivering interrogatories now? Please clarify.

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Advocate By LEAD INDIA Answered: 30 Oct 2025

Yes, you can seek the court’s permission to deliver interrogatories under Order XI of the CPC, but ideally, such an application should be made before the trial or during the early stages of evidence. However, if your cross-examination has not started yet, you may file an application with valid reasons showing why interrogatories are essential for clarity and justice. The court may allow it in the interest of fair trial. For further legal assistance contact us on our helpline number.
 

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