Article 17 of CoI : Article 17: Abolition Of Untouchability

Explanation using Example

Imagine a small village where a certain community is considered 'untouchable' and not allowed to draw water from the village well. Ramesh, a member of that community, approaches the well to get water for his family. The village head, upon seeing this, reprimands him and forbids him from using the well, citing his 'untouchable' status.

In this scenario, under Article 17 of the Constitution of India, the practice of untouchability that the village head is enforcing is illegal. Ramesh has the right to approach the authorities, and the village head can be prosecuted for the offense of practicing untouchability, ensuring that Ramesh and his community are treated equally and with dignity.