The untouchability is may be defined as the quality or condition of being an untouchable, ascribed in the Vedic tradition to persons of low caste or to persons excluded from the caste system.

A social practice within the caste system whereby members of the lowest caste are considered to be ritually impure to such an extent that they cause pollution by More touch untouchability caste is at the bottom of the social scalls and are excluded from an institution

Untouchability is a social practice that is deeply rooted in the caste system of India. It is the practice of considering certain individuals or groups as impure or polluting, and therefore, untouchable. These individuals, known as Dalits or Scheduled Castes, are subjected to various forms of discrimination and exclusion from mainstream society.

Origin and Historical Background:
Untouchability has its origins in the ancient Hindu caste system, which categorizes individuals into hierarchical social groups based on their birth. The concept of purity and pollution plays a significant role in this system, where certain occupations and activities are considered polluting and those engaged in such occupations are deemed impure. The lowest caste, known as the Dalits or untouchables, are considered the most impure and are subjected to severe discrimination.

Discrimination and Exclusion:
Untouchability manifests itself in various forms, including social, economic, and religious discrimination. Dalits are often denied access to public spaces, such as temples, schools, and wells. They are also restricted from using common resources and are forced to engage in menial and degrading occupations, such as manual scavenging and cleaning human waste. Dalits face discrimination in employment, education, and healthcare, leading to limited opportunities for social mobility and economic advancement.

Legal and Constitutional Measures:
To address the issue of untouchability and caste-based discrimination, the Indian government has enacted several laws and provisions. The Constitution of India abolished untouchability and made it a punishable offense. The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, provides legal protection to Dalits and imposes penalties for offenses committed against them.

Social Reform Movements:
Various social reform movements have emerged in India to challenge untouchability and caste-based discrimination. Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and Jyotirao Phule played significant roles in advocating for the rights and dignity of Dalits. These movements strive to create awareness, promote equality, and mobilize communities to eradicate untouchability from society.

Challenges and Progress:
Despite legal and social efforts, untouchability and caste-based discrimination continue to persist in certain parts of India. The deeply entrenched social hierarchy and prejudices make it challenging to eliminate these practices entirely. However, there have been significant strides in raising awareness, empowering Dalits, and implementing affirmative action policies to promote their welfare and inclusion.

In conclusion, untouchability is a deeply entrenched social practice that stems from the caste system in India. It involves the discrimination and exclusion of certain individuals based on their caste, primarily the Dalits or untouchables. While legal measures and social reform movements have made progress in addressing this issue, the complete eradication of untouchability remains an ongoing challenge.