Which among the following issues are abolished by the Article 17 of the Indian constitution?
Untouchability
Understanding Article 17 of the Indian Constitution
The question asks which issue among the given options is abolished by Article 17 of the Indian Constitution. Article 17 is a crucial part of the Fundamental Rights guaranteed to the citizens of India. It specifically addresses a major social evil that historically plagued Indian society.
Article 17 and Abolition of Untouchability
Article 17 of the Constitution of India explicitly states:
"Abolition of Untouchability.—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."
This article aims to eradicate the practice of untouchability, which is a form of social discrimination based on caste. It declares untouchability illegal and makes its practice a punishable offense.
Analyzing the Options
Let's look at the options provided and see how they relate to Article 17:
- Untouchability: As discussed above, Article 17 is directly and solely concerned with the abolition of untouchability.
- Racism: Racism is discrimination based on race. While the Indian Constitution prohibits discrimination on grounds of race under Article 15, Article 17 is not about racism; it's specifically about untouchability.
- Slavery: Slavery or forced labour (begar) is prohibited under Article 23 of the Indian Constitution, which deals with the Right against Exploitation. Article 17 does not address slavery.
- Colourism: Colourism is discrimination based on skin colour. Like racism, discrimination based on colour could be considered under the broader prohibition of discrimination on various grounds (like race, place of birth) under Article 15, but Article 17 is specific to untouchability.
Based on the clear text of Article 17, the issue it abolishes is untouchability.
Key Takeaways from Article 17
- It is a Fundamental Right under Part III of the Indian Constitution.
- It aims to abolish the social practice of untouchability.
- It declares the practice of untouchability in any form as forbidden.
- It makes the enforcement of any disability arising from untouchability a punishable offence by law.
| Issue | Relevant Constitutional Article(s) | Abolished by Article 17? |
|---|---|---|
| Untouchability | Article 17 | Yes |
| Racism | Article 15 (prohibits discrimination on grounds including race) | No |
| Slavery / Forced Labour | Article 23 | No |
| Colourism | Article 15 (potentially, depending on interpretation related to race/place of birth) | No |
Therefore, the only issue from the given options that is directly and specifically abolished by Article 17 of the Indian Constitution is untouchability.
Revision Table: Important Articles
| Article No. | Subject Matter |
|---|---|
| Article 14 | Equality before law and 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 matters of public employment |
| Article 17 | Abolition of Untouchability |
| Article 18 | Abolition of titles |
| Article 21 | Protection of life and personal liberty |
| Article 23 | Prohibition of traffic in human beings and forced labour |
Additional Information on Untouchability and Article 17
The term 'untouchability' is not defined in the Constitution itself. However, its meaning has evolved through judicial interpretations and legislative actions. Parliament has enacted laws to enforce the provisions of Article 17, such as the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 (originally called the Untouchability (Offences) Act, 1955). This act prescribes punishments for the practice of untouchability in various forms.
The abolition of untouchability under Article 17 is a significant step towards achieving social justice and equality in India. It is one of the fundamental rights that aims to correct historical injustices and ensure dignity for all individuals, regardless of their caste background.
Important Questions from Basics of Constitution
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