Constitutional state · 2026
Constitution of India
Part III — Fundamental Rights
Article17
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.
In plain language
Untouchability is not a social custom the Constitution will tolerate. Practising it, or enforcing a disability that comes from it, is a crime.
This wording has been in force since 1950 on this desk.
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