Detailed Explanation:

Answer: Option 2 — 2 and 3 only

According to Kautilya's Arthashastra, statements 2 and 3 are correct regarding the laws pertaining to slavery. The Arthashastra provided progressive provisions for slaves, particularly female slaves who bore children to their masters.

❌ Statement 1 – Incorrect: A person could not become a slave as a result of judicial punishment according to the Arthashastra. Kautilya explicitly prohibited enslavement as a form of punishment.

✅ Statement 2 – Correct: If a female slave bore her master a son, she was legally entitled to freedom as per the provisions in the Arthashastra.

✅ Statement 3 – Correct: A son born to a female slave and fathered by her master was granted the legal status of the master's son, with all associated rights and privileges.

📝 Short Notes: Slavery in Kautilya's Arthashastra

• Progressive Nature: The Arthashastra contained relatively progressive laws on slavery compared to contemporary systems, with clear protections for slaves.
• Sources of Slavery: Persons could become slaves through birth (if born to a slave), voluntary self-sale during distress, capture in war, or as a result of debt bondage—but NOT through judicial punishment.
• Prohibition of Judicial Slavery: Kautilya explicitly prohibited making slavery a form of punishment for crimes, distinguishing it from other ancient legal systems.
• Rights of Female Slaves: Female slaves who bore children to their masters gained freedom, and their children enjoyed the legal status of legitimate heirs.
• Temporary Nature: Many forms of slavery (especially debt slavery) were temporary, with provisions for manumission and redemption.
• Arya Slavery: Kautilya distinguished between Arya (indigenous) slaves, who had more protections, and Dasa slaves (foreigners/war captives).