Correct Answer:
C. Both (a) and (b)
Foundational Concept: The P.P.C. prescribes severe penalties for acts preparatory to waging war against the state, reflecting the gravity of such offenses.
- Correct Option (C) Both (a) and (b): This is accurate. Section 122 P.P.C. states that whoever collects arms, etc., with the intention of waging war against Pakistan, or abets such an act, shall be punished with imprisonment for life, or with imprisonment of either description for a term not exceeding ten years, and shall also be liable to fine. Both life imprisonment and imprisonment for a term not exceeding ten years are explicitly mentioned as possible punishments.
- Distractor (A) Life: While life imprisonment is a possible punishment, it is not the only one.
- Distractor (B) A term not exceeding ten years: Similarly, this is a possible punishment, but not the sole one.
Thus, Section 122 P.P.C. provides for a range of punishments, including both life imprisonment and imprisonment up to ten years.