International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

E-ISSN: 2582-2160     Impact Factor: 9.24

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 8, Issue 2 (March-April 2026) Submit your research before last 3 days of April to publish your research paper in the issue of March-April.

Indian Constitution: Abolition of Untouchability and Legal Provisions

Author(s) Vandana Janardhan Bhise
Country India
Abstract Untouchability has been one of the most inhuman consequences of the caste system deeply rooted in Indian society. For centuries, Scheduled Castes were subjected to social exclusion, denial of dignity, and systematic discrimination in social, economic, and cultural life. After independence, the Constitution of India adopted social justice, equality, and human dignity as its foundational values and resolved to eradicate untouchability completely. This research article undertakes a constitutional analysis of Articles 14, 15, 16, 17, 21, and 46 of the Indian Constitution to examine the legal framework for the abolition of untouchability. Article 17 occupies a central position by explicitly abolishing untouchability in all its forms and declaring its practice a punishable offence. The study highlights the harmonious relationship between Fundamental Rights and the Directive Principles of State Policy in addressing structural inequalities created by untouchability. The analysis reveals that the abolition of untouchability is not merely a social reform but a core principle of constitutional morality. However, the effective realization of constitutional mandates requires strong administrative commitment, social awareness, and rigorous enforcement of constitutional provisions.
Keywords Indian Constitution, Untouchability, Article 17, Social Justice, Fundamental Rights.
Field Sociology > Administration / Law / Management
Published In Volume 8, Issue 1, January-February 2026
Published On 2026-02-24

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