With reference to Pondicherry (present-day Puducherry), consider the following statements 1. The Portuguese were the first European power to capture Pondicherry. 2. The second European power to capture Pondicherry was the French. 3. The British never captured Pondicherry. Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct?

• A. only 1
• B. 2 and 3
• C. only 3
• D. all these