Step 1: Understanding the Definition of Judgment:
As per Section 2(9) of the Civil Procedure Code, a "judgment" is the statement given by the judge on the grounds of a decree or order. It explains the reasoning and legal basis on which the decision is made.
Step 2: Difference Between Judgment, Decree, and Order:
- A “judgment” is the reasoning behind the decision.
- A “decree” is the formal expression of the adjudication that conclusively determines the rights of the parties.
- An “order” is a decision that may not finally determine the rights but deals with procedural or intermediate matters.
Step 3: Analysis of Options:
- (A) A decree – Incorrect, as a decree is the final decision, not the reasoning.
- (B) Dismissal of an appeal – Incorrect, this is a consequence, not a judgment itself.
- (C) Statement of grounds of an order or decree – Correct, as this matches the CPC definition.
- (D) All of the above – Incorrect, only (C) correctly defines a judgment.
Step 4: Final Conclusion:
The correct answer is (C) Statement of grounds of an order or decree, as per Section 2(9) CPC.