WHAT IS RECEIVER UNDER CPC

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This article is written by Tanisha Mohanty of 7^th Semester of BBA.LLB of SOA National Institute of Law, an intern under Legal Vidhiya.

Abstract:

The concept of a receiver in the Civil Procedure Code has been a pivotal tool in the realm of civil litigation. It is an equitable remedy that allows for the preservation and management of property during the pendency of a lawsuit. This article delves into the various aspects of a receiver and also the purpose of appointment of a receiver, the appointment process, the powers, duties and liabilities of a receiver, the landmark case laws and its significance in contemporary legal practice.

The administration of civil proceedings is governed under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908. The present article provides the comprehensive study of the provisions of the related to receiver under CPC, 1908.

Keywords:

Receiver, powers, liabilities and duties, appointment of receiver, preservation, custody, protection, transparency, legal proceedings, prima facie case, court discretion

Introduction:

The institution of a receiver within the framework of the Civil Procedure Code (CPC) is an indispensable component of civil litigation in India. It plays a pivotal role in safeguarding property, managing assets, and ensuring equitable outcomes during the pendency of legal proceedings. This article offers a comprehensive exploration of the concept of a receiver under the CPC, delving into its historical origins, elucidating the process of appointment, dissecting the multifaceted duties and powers conferred upon a receiver, and underlining its enduring significance in contemporary legal practice.

The CPC, a cornerstone of Indian civil law, meticulously lays down the procedural rules for civil litigation, defining the processes and mechanisms by which disputes are adjudicated. Amidst these rules, the appointment of a receiver serves as a dynamic legal tool for maintaining the status quo, averting potential harm to property, and upholding the principles of fairness and equity.

A receiver, as defined under the CPC, is an individual or entity nominated by the court to assume control, possession, and management of property in dispute, particularly in scenarios where such property faces imminent risk or where its preservation is imperative for a just resolution. This concept finds its roots in the historical development of equitable principles in the Anglo-Saxon legal system and was subsequently incorporated into the Indian legal landscape.

In civil litigation, the role of a receiver is essential in aiding the court. The receiver is a representative of the court who assists the court in safeguarding and preserving the subject matter of the suit until the court renders a decision. In certain cases, the court may deem it in the best interests of both parties to designate a receiver to be responsible for the administration of the subject matter, which may be either a movable or an immovable property. The receiver is responsible for managing the property in the same manner that a prudent individual would manage their own possessions. The receiver must adhere to the instructions of the court, or else the court may attach the property in order to recover the amount owed to the receiver.

Receiver under CPC

The Receiver is a neutral third party who is chosen by the court to administer or control, that is, to safeguard and preserve, a disputed piece of property that is the subject of a lawsuit, in accordance with CPC order 40.

For example, in a dispute between A and B over an immovable property, if the court believes that taking possession from B and giving it to an independent person is in the best interests of both parties, the court may appoint a receiver to manage the property until the suit is resolved. A receiver designated by the court would oversee the property’s upkeep. After deducting maintenance charges from the income received from the property, the receiver must present any residual income to the court.

He is not a representative of either of the parties in the action, and is universally regarded as a court officer working in the interests of neither the plaintiff nor the defendant, but for the advantage of all parties.

In Anthony C. Leo v. Nandlal Balakrishnan[1], the Supreme Court defined a receiver as an impartial person. He works for the Court. The property in the deceiver’s custody is custodio legis, which means in the custody of the law or the court. The receiver has the same powers as the true owner of the property, but he is always subject to the Court’s supervision.

Purpose of appointment of receiver

The entire purpose of the lawsuit is undermined when a party in possession of the contested property exhausts it or inflicts irreparable harm on it because the subject matter no longer exists or loses value. When the court determines that the property in question should not be transferred to either of the parties, pendente lite, the court appoints a receiver who is tasked with the protection and preservation of such property. It is a type of interim protection granted by the court to the parties who file the application until the court rules on the case.

Appointment of a receiver, Provisions Under CPC, 1908

The relevant provisions in the CPC that govern the appointment of a receiver are primarily found in Order 40. Order 40, Rule 1 of the CPC grants the court the authority to appoint a receiver. It states:

“Where it appears to the court to be just and convenient, the court may, by order, appoint a receiver of any property, whether before or after decree.”

This rule empowers the court with the discretion to appoint a receiver when it deems it just and convenient for the protection and preservation of property in dispute. The term “before or after decree” signifies that a receiver can be appointed at various stages of a civil suit, whether it is pending, before a judgment is passed, or even after a judgment has been delivered.

The appointment of a receiver under the CPC, 1908 is a discretionary power vested in the court, aimed at preserving and managing property during civil litigation. It is an important mechanism for ensuring the protection of rights and assets, especially in cases where the property’s value or condition is at risk. This procedure, rooted in equitable principles, is a vital tool for achieving just and fair outcomes in civil disputes.

The court’s decision on whether to appoint a receiver or not is a discretionary one, guided by principles of justice, fairness, and the specific circumstances of the case. To make this determination, the court considers several factors and evaluates the merits of the application for the appointment of a receiver. Here are the key considerations that influence the court’s decision:

Prima Facie Case: The court assesses whether the party seeking the appointment of a receiver has made a prima facie case. In other words, the court evaluates whether there is sufficient evidence to indicate that the appointment of a receiver is warranted. The applicant must demonstrate the existence of a valid claim or a likelihood of success in the underlying dispute.
Nature of the Property: The court considers the type and nature of the property or assets in dispute. If the property is at risk of waste, deterioration, or potential harm, the court is more likely to appoint a receiver to protect and preserve it. Property that is perishable or subject to rapid depreciation may be particularly susceptible to receiver appointments.
Balance of Convenience: The court weighs the balance of convenience and assesses whether it would be more convenient and just to appoint a receiver. This involves considering the interests of all parties involved and determining whether the appointment of a receiver would serve the overall fairness of the case.
Likelihood of Irreparable Harm: The court examines whether there is a real risk of irreparable harm or damage to the property if a receiver is not appointed. If the court believes that failing to appoint a receiver would result in significant harm that cannot be adequately compensated through monetary damages, it is more inclined to appoint one
Facts and Circumstances: The specific facts and circumstances of the case play a crucial role. Courts take into account the unique details of the dispute, the urgency of the situation, and the potential consequences of not appointing a receiver.
Opposition and Objections: The court listens to any objections or opposition from the opposite party. If the opposing party provides valid reasons against the appointment of a receiver, the court may consider these arguments in its decision.
Equity and Fairness: Ultimately, the court’s decision is guided by principles of equity and fairness. It aims to ensure that the rights and interests of all parties are protected and that a just outcome is achieved.
Conditions and Security: The court may impose conditions and require the applicant to provide security to cover the costs and expenses associated with the receiver’s appointment. These conditions help protect the interests of all parties involved and may influence the court’s decision.

Wherever it appears to be just and convenient, the Court before which the proceedings are continuing may appoint a receiver of the property, whether before or after decree.

It may remove any person from ownership or custody of the property and commit it to the receiver’s possession, custody, or administration.

Thus, the provision gives the Court the discretionary power to remove any individual and appoint a receiver in order to accomplish the goals of justice. However, if no party to the suit has the authority to remove a person from ownership or custody of the property, the Court cannot dispose of that person.

The Madras High Court established the five principles that must be kept in mind before appointing a receiver in the landmark case of T. Krishnaswany Chetty v. C. Thangavelu Chetty.[2]

These principles are:

The appointment of a receiver is at the Court’s sole discretion. However, in order to preserve the rights of all parties involved in the conflict and the subject-matter, this discretion must be exercised while taking all relevant circumstances into account. It is one of the harshest legal remedies because it deprives a party of possession of property even before a definitive ruling is made; as a result, it should only be used in cases when there are no other suitable legal options.
The plaintiff must demonstrate an urgency, danger, or loss that requires quick action, and a court cannot appoint a receiver only on the basis that it will cause no harm.
An order appointing a receiver will not be issued if it has the effect of depriving a defendant of ‘de facto’ possession, as this could result in irreparable harm.
The applicant must be blameless and must not have used laches, delay, acquiescence, or similar tactics.

A Plaintiff often submits a request for the appointment of a receiver. Nothing, however, prevents a defendant from requesting the appointment of a receiver provided it is fair and practical to do so.

Additionally, a third party may submit such an application if they are concerned about the management, protection, preservation, or improvement of real estate. On the question of whether the Court can name a receiver suo moto, there is dispute.

Powers of the receiver

A receiver, appointed by the court, is vested with various powers to carry out their duties effectively. These powers are granted to them to protect, manage, and preserve the property or assets in dispute during the pendency of a civil lawsuit. The specific powers of a receiver may vary depending on the court’s orders and the circumstances of the case, but here are some common powers typically conferred upon a receiver.

According to Order 40 R 1(1)d), the Court may grant the receiver some or all of the following powers:

Possession and Management: The primary power of a receiver is to take possession and manage the property or assets in question. This includes collecting rents, income, and profits generated by the property.
Protection of Property: A receiver is tasked with safeguarding the property from waste, damage, or deterioration. They must take measures to ensure that the property remains in a suitable condition until the resolution of the lawsuit.
Maintenance and Repairs: A receiver can authorize necessary maintenance and repairs to the property, ensuring that it remains in good condition. This can include repairs to structures, maintenance of equipment, and general upkeep.
Lease or Sale: In some cases, the court may grant a receiver the power to lease or sell the property. This is usually done to realize the assets or income and to ensure that the property serves its intended purpose during the litigation.
Investment of Funds: If the property generates income, a receiver can invest those funds in interest-bearing accounts or investments as directed by the court, ensuring that the income is preserved and potentially increased.
Collection of Debts: A receiver can collect debts, rents, or other income associated with the property and distribute the proceeds as ordered by the court.
Submission of Reports: Receivers are required to submit regular reports to the court, accounting for their actions, income, and expenses related to the property under their management. These reports ensure transparency and accountability.
Taking Legal Action: A receiver may initiate or defend legal actions related to the property or assets. This could include filing lawsuits to collect outstanding rents, seeking injunctions to prevent harm to the property, or defending against claims made by third parties.
Payment of Expenses: Receivers can pay expenses related to the property, such as property taxes, insurance premiums, and maintenance costs, from the income generated by the property.
Access to Records: Receivers typically have access to all relevant records and documents related to the property, allowing them to manage and account for the property’s financial affairs.
Bank Accounts: A receiver may open and operate bank accounts in their name or the name of the receivership estate to handle financial transactions related to the property.
Enforcement of Court Orders: Receivers are responsible for enforcing court orders and directions. This could involve carrying out orders for the sale of the property or the distribution of proceeds.
Dissolution of Receivership: Once the lawsuit is resolved, the receiver may have the power to dissolve the receivership and distribute any remaining assets or income according to the court’s orders.

It is crucial to remember that the precise powers of a receiver are established by the court order appointing them and may change depending on the circumstances. The receiver must act within the parameters of the court’s instructions, which will specify the receiver’s duties and authority in a specific case. The court also has the right to alter, limit, or broaden the receiver’s powers as appropriate.

In Krishna Kumar v. Grindlays Bank P.L.C.[3], it was decided that a receiver cannot submit a lawsuit or be sued without the court’s permission, and that if a lawsuit is filed without this permission, it risks being dismissed and having its judgement overturned. However, granting leave is an exception rather than the rule.

It was determined in Prabodh Nath Shah v. SBI[4] that the receiver’s order 40 list of powers is not all-inclusive and may occasionally be supplemented. The recipient might even succeed in increasing the rent.

The receiver’s duties and liabilities

The following are the duties of a receiver under order 40 rule (3):

Provide security to cover the income he will receive from the property.
submit accounts (twice a year) for the time frame or in the format requested by the court. In essence, the account shows the money collected and costs expended to safeguard and maintain the property.
Pay the court what is owed.
Accept responsibility for any decrease in property value brought on by the receiver’s wilful neglect.
discharge the obligations in person and should not cede or transfer any of the court-granted rights.

Liabilities:

Order 40 regulation (4) states that if a receiver fails:

submit the reports in accordance with the court’s requirements,
to make the payment required of him by the court, or,
damages the property due to its negligence
any further obligations imposed by the court,

In order to recover the loss brought on by the receiver’s willful default or neglect, the court may order attachment of the receiver property.

The balance (if any) will be paid to the receiver by the court following the recovery of all losses from the money made from the sale of the receiver’s property.

The receiver is responsible for keeping costs down and caring for the assets in his possession in the same way that a wise individual would in a situation similar to his own.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the appointment of a receiver under the Civil Procedure Code is a pivotal and multifaceted aspect of the Indian legal system. It acts as a safeguard, preserving and managing property during civil litigation, thereby promoting fairness, and preventing potential harm. Receivers, acting as officers of the court, carry substantial responsibilities, including the custody and efficient management of the property in question. These duties are rooted in principles of equity and justice, necessitating transparent and impartial actions that serve the best interests of all parties involved.

The powers vested in receivers empower them to act effectively in the preservation and utilization of property, thereby upholding the court’s intent and ensuring the property’s well-being. However, these powers come with a parallel responsibility – a strict fiduciary duty. This duty emphasizes accountability and unwavering compliance with court orders. The delicate balance between these powers and responsibilities underscores the importance of receivers in maintaining the integrity of the legal process.

Receivers are essential components in preserving the status quo, protecting the rights of parties, and contributing to the pursuit of justice within the framework of Indian civil litigation. Their role is a testament to the commitment to uphold the foundational principles of fairness, equity, and justice in the Indian legal system.

References

[1] Anthony C. Leo v. Nandlal Balakrishnan, AIR 1996 SC 1323.

[2] T. Krishnaswany Chetty v. C. Thangavelu Chetty, AIR 1930 Mad 430

[3] Krishna Kumar v. Grindlays Bank P.L.C., AIR 1991 SC 899.

[4] Prabodh Nath Shah v. SBI, Civil Appeal no. 3908/1999.