Which one of the following categories of Fundamental Rights incorporates protection against untouchability as a form of discrimination?

The correct answer is D. Article 17 abolishes untouchability and forbids its practice in any form. It sits in the Right to Equality block (Articles 14 to 18), which is where the Constitution places protection against caste-based discrimination and social exclusion.

Why the others fail:

• A) Right against Exploitation (Articles 23-24) deals with traffic in human beings, forced labour (begar) and child labour in hazardous work. It does not mention untouchability.
• B) Right to Freedom (Articles 19-22) covers speech, life and personal liberty, and protection against arbitrary arrest. Untouchability is not its subject.
• C) Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32) is the remedy that lets you move the Supreme Court when any fundamental right is violated. It is a remedy, not a substantive protection.

Core concept: Article 17 is enforced through the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955, which was earlier the Untouchability (Offences) Act, 1955. In Mains, link it to social justice and caste discrimination, and note that Article 17 operates against private individuals too.

Trap: aspirants pick Right against Exploitation because untouchability feels like a form of oppression. Remember that the Constitution files it under equality.