Let us learn more about Article 17 of Indian Constitution. The Constitution of India guarantees six Fundamental Rights to all its citizens. The Right to equality is one of them. Thus, the State cannot discriminate against anyone on the grounds of caste, color, sex, or religion. Recognizing the need to uplift the depressed classes, special facilities and reservations have been provided for the scheduled castes and tribes. To make this more effective, the practice of �untouchability has been made a punishable offense under the Protection of Civil Rights Act of 1955.

The worst effect of untouchability is the demoralization of a large section of society. The Harizans have been treated badly by the rest of the people and have been forced to live in poor and unhygienic conditions. They have had no chance for improving themselves and achieving a better life. This has led to two things- Some are so humiliated by this treatment that they begin to believe that they do not deserve anything better and become resigned to this level of existence. Others feel frustrated and develop a feeling of resentment. Thus, the peace and progress of the country are threatened.

Article 17 of Indian Constitution deals with untouchability. Laws against untouchability are an important measure taken by the government to uphold the rights of the people who have been discriminated against on the basis of caste. At the same time, other methods are being used to create awareness amongst the people to bring about a change in attitudes and reform society on the whole. These include films and public discussions on the subject.

Harizan Week or Harizan Day is observed in several States to educate people about the evils of untouchability and caste discrimination. Other activities are also organized to encourage integration, like the cleaning of Harizan colonies, arranging community dinners, Harizans offering water to people of other castes, and Harizans being welcomed into temples which they could not enter earlier.

Voluntary organizations and the media have also played their part with street plays being entered and articles being written against the practice of untouchability. Seminars and debates on the topic are also organized and school children are educated on the evils of caste discrimination. Inter-caste marriages that were taboo earlier are also being encouraged.

The government has also set aside large sums of money in the Five-Year Plans for the upliftment of the Harizans. Certain states have even given awards to the villages that have worked successfully for the eradication of this social evil.

Read More: What is Untouchability and Who Were Untouchables or Harijans? Class 8