| Point of Difference | Plaint | Pleading |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | A plaint is a written complaint filed by a plaintiff to initiate a civil suit. | Pleading is a broader term that includes all written statements submitted by parties in a civil case. |
| Who files it? | Filed by the plaintiff (the person who sues). | Filed by both parties – plaintiff (plaint) and defendant (written statement). |
| Purpose | To state the cause of action and seek relief from the court. | To present facts, defenses, or claims in the legal proceedings. |
| Legal Provision | Mentioned in Order 7 of the Civil Procedure Code (CPC), 1908. | Covered under Order 6 of the CPC, 1908. |
| Includes | Only the initial complaint filed by the plaintiff. | Includes plaint, written statement, counterclaim, rejoinder, etc. |
| Example | A person files a plaint to recover money from someone. | Plaintiff’s plaint, Defendant’s written statement – both are pleadings. |
