Pleadings can be amended before the

Correct option is D

The correct answer is D. Under Order VI Rule 17 of the Civil Procedure Code, 1908, pleadings can be amended at any stage of the proceedings with the permission of the court, including in the trial court, first appellate court, or second appellate court, provided the amendment is necessary for determining the real questions in controversy.

However, amendments in appellate courts are subject to stricter scrutiny, particularly in the second appeal, where the scope is limited to substantial questions of law under Section 100 of the CPC. The court must also consider factors like prejudice to the other party and undue delay.