What does ‘preventive detention’ mean?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Detaining persons on suspicion
In preventive detention a person is held without trial, not for an offence already committed, but on a reasonable suspicion that he may act against public order or the security of the State. Article 22(3) to 22(7) of the Constitution lays down safeguards for such detention.
Why the other options are incorrect
Option (1) Detention for interrogation — Incorrect. Questioning a suspect is part of the investigation of a crime already alleged.
Option (2) Detention for a cognizable offence — Incorrect. This is an ordinary arrest for a crime already alleged to have been committed.
Option (4) All of the above — Incorrect. Options (1) and (2) describe action on past offences.