Explanation:

Let’s break it down:

- The Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, specifically says desertion can be a ground for divorce if it happens for a continuous period of 2 years before filing the petition.

- Option 1, “5 years,” is too long according to the law.

- Option 2, “4 years,” again, is longer than required.

- Option 3, “3 years,” still overshoots the mark.

- Option 4, “2 years,” nails it—that’s the statutory period written straight into the Act.

- The logic is: the law gives a little time for reconciliation, but not so much that your life is on hold forever.

So, the correct answer is:

Option:4, 2 years