Abolition of untouchability is a consequence of:

The correct answer is Right to Equality.

Key Points

• The abolition of untouchability is explicitly guaranteed under Article 17 of the Indian Constitution, which is part of the Right to Equality.
• Article 17 declares untouchability as a punishable offense, thus ensuring social justice and equality among citizens.
• The Right to Equality, mentioned in Articles 14-18, ensures equal treatment of all citizens before the law and prohibits discrimination on grounds such as religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
• The abolition of untouchability aims to eliminate caste-based discrimination and promote inclusivity in Indian society.
• It is a key provision to uphold the principles of equality and dignity enshrined in the Constitution of India.

Additional Information

• Right to Equality
  • Articles 14-18 of the Indian Constitution collectively define the Right to Equality.
  • Article 14: Ensures equality before the law and equal protection of the laws within the territory of India.
  • Article 15: Prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
  • Article 16: Guarantees equality of opportunity in matters of public employment.
  • Article 17: Abolishes untouchability and forbids its practice in any form.
  • Article 18: Prohibits the state from conferring titles except military or academic distinctions.
• Untouchability
  • Untouchability refers to the social practice of ostracizing certain groups, particularly Dalits, based on caste discrimination.
  • The practice was deeply rooted in India’s social structure for centuries but was abolished under Article 17 of the Constitution.
  • Any act of promoting or practicing untouchability is punishable under the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955.
  • The abolition of untouchability is a landmark step toward establishing an egalitarian society.
• Constitutional Remedies
  • While the Right to Equality ensures justice, the Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32) allows individuals to seek enforcement of their fundamental rights.
  • It empowers citizens to approach the courts in case of violation of fundamental rights.
  • The Supreme Court of India acts as the guardian of these rights.