UPSC Prelims 2020·GS1·polity-and-governance·social justice and international relations

Which one of the following categories of Fundamental Rights incorporates protection against untouchability as a form of discrimination?

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Last updated 23 May 2026, 3:31 pm IST
  1. ARight against Exploitation
  2. BRight to Freedom
  3. CRight to Constitutional Remedies
  4. DRight to EqualityCorrect

Explanation

Article 17 of the Indian Constitution states, "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." Article 17 is a part of the Fundamental Rights enshrined in Part III of the Constitution. Specifically, it falls under the 'Right to Equality', which is covered by Articles 14 to 18 of the Constitution. The objective of the Right to Equality is to establish equality before the law and equal protection of the laws, and to prohibit discrimination on various grounds, including caste, thereby addressing historical injustices like untouchability. Let's briefly look at other options: Right against Exploitation (Articles 23-24): Deals with the prohibition of human trafficking, forced labor, and child labor. Right to Freedom (Articles 19-22): Encompasses various freedoms such as speech, assembly, movement, and protection against arbitrary arrest and detention. Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32): Grants citizens the right to move the Supreme Court for the enforcement of their Fundamental Rights. Therefore, the protection against untouchability is incorporated under the Right to Equality.
polity-and-governance: Which one of the following categories of Fundamental Rights incorporates protection against untouchability as a form of

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