The Correct answer is 60 days. Explanation & Key Takeaways: • The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 replaces the colonial-era criminal procedure laws in India to modernize and streamline the judicial processes. • Under the provisions of the BNSS, 2023, the maximum detention period before granting default bail for offences punishable with imprisonment of less than 10 years is set to 60 days. • This provision aims to ensure a balance between the investigation of offences and the rights of accused individuals to not face indefinite incarceration without trial. • The concept of default bail is rooted in the protection of personal liberty as enshrined under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. • If the investigation is not completed within the prescribed period (in this case, 60 days), the accused becomes entitled to bail as a matter of right. • The BNSS, 2023 aligns with India’s commitment to protecting human rights while maintaining justice and order. • This provision is part of the reformatory changes aimed at reducing delays and increasing efficiency in the criminal justice system. Related Concepts: • 15 days • The detention period of 15 days is typically applicable in cases of minor offences or for initial custody orders under certain laws. • This duration is not sufficient for complex investigations involving offences punishable with imprisonment of less than 10 years, as defined in the BNSS, 2023. • 30 days • A detention period of 30 days may apply to cases requiring shorter investigatory timelines, but it is not the maximum limit under the given provisions of BNSS, 2023. • 90 days • The detention period of 90 days is applicable for serious offences where the punishment is imprisonment of 10 years or more, as per the BNSS, 2023. • This provision ensures that adequate time is given to the investigation of grave offences like murder or terrorism-related activities.