PREVIOUSLY ASKED IN:
WBPSC Miscellaneous Preliminary 2019
Answer
Article 17
Explanation
Article 17 of the Indian Constitution deals with the 'Abolition of Untouchability'. It strictly forbids the practice of untouchability in any form and makes its enforcement arising out of untouchability a punishable offense in accordance with the law. This article falls under the broader category of 'Right to Equality' provided in Part III of the Constitution.
Key Points
- > Articles 14 to 18 of the Constitution cover the Right to Equality.
- > Article 17 is one of the few absolute fundamental rights without any constitutional exceptions.
- > To enforce this article, Parliament passed the Untouchability (Offences) Act in 1955, later renamed the Protection of Civil Rights Act in 1976.
- > Article 18 deals with the Abolition of Titles (except military and academic).
- > Article 19 guarantees 6 fundamental freedoms, including the freedom of speech and expression.
Additional Information
Right to Equality (Articles 14 - 18)
| Article | Core Subject |
|---|---|
| Article 14 | Equality before the law & Equal protection of laws |
| Article 15 | Prohibition of discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth |
| Article 16 | Equality of opportunity in public employment |
| Article 17 | Abolition of Untouchability |
| Article 18 | Abolition of Titles (except military and academic) |
Memory Tips
- Article 17 (Danger): Practicing untouchability is a danger/crime (17 = Danger in hindi numerology slang 'Satra=Khatra').
- Article 18: At age 18, you drop childhood titles.