Delhi HCSupreme CourtNCLTNCLATCCIDRTRERADPDP 2023
Constitution of IndiaPart IIIFundamental Right

Article 17

Abolition of Untouchability

untouchabilityabolitioncaste discriminationSCProtection of Civil Rights Actatrocities

Plain English Explanation

Article 17 completely abolishes untouchability. Unlike other Fundamental Rights, this is an absolute right with no exceptions. The Practice of Untouchability Act (now known as the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955) and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 implement this article. This is one of the most transformative provisions of the Constitution, directly targeting the caste system.

Legal Text

The Constitution of India · Article 17

"Untouchability" is abolished and its practice in any form is forbidden. The enforcement of any disability arising out of "Untouchability" shall be an offence punishable in accordance with law.

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Quick Facts

Article Number
17
Part
III
Type
Fundamental Right

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