The objectionable cartoon on Dr Ambedkar published in the NCERT text book has been withdrawn with immediate effect. This was stated by the Human Resource Development Minister, Mr Kapil Sibal while responding to the demand of several members, including BSP Chief Mayawati in the Rajya Sabha today.

Sharing the concern of the members across the board, Mr Sibal said that his ministry has ordered scrutiny of all objectionable cartoons and the content by a new committee set up by the NCERT. He told the members that NCERT has also been asked not to release the books for public distribution.

Mr Sibal said the government will look into the matter whether it amounted to any criminal offence or not. He said the Architect of the Indian Constitutions belongs to all sections of the people in the country.
Earlier, raising the issue, Ms Mayawati said the cartoon is an insult to Dr Ambedkar on whom the people have deep faith.

She demanded stringent action against the people responsible for its inclusion in the text books. Mr Ram Vilas Paswan of the Lok Janshakti Party, demanded the dissolution of the NCERT.

The House, later took up the Private Members Legislative Business.