Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has appealed for an end to the controversy involving singer Daler Mehndi and state minister Subodh Uniyal. Addressing the allegations of public humiliation during a cultural event, Dhami said he would personally speak with Daler Mehndi and his brother, singer Mika Singh, to help resolve the matter.
The chief minister described both singers as his close friends and emphasised that Uttarakhand has always respected artists and their contributions.
Pushkar Singh Dhami Responds to Daler Mehndi Controversy
During a press conference, Dhami addressed the incident that took place at the Kunjapuri fair in New Tehri. He suggested that minister Subodh Uniyal may have faced pressure from members of the public at the time.
Dhami also referred to Uniyal’s clarification that he was unaware of Daler Mehndi’s health condition during the performance.
“Uttarakhand is a land of artists, where everyone is treated with respect. I feel this matter should be put to rest here,” the chief minister stated.
Expressing his intention to speak with the singers, Dhami added, “I will speak with Mika and Daler Mehndi; both are good friends of mine.”
What Happened Between Daler Mehndi and Subodh Uniyal?
The dispute began during a cultural programme organised as part of the Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair in New Tehri.
During Daler Mehndi’s stage performance, minister Subodh Uniyal confronted the singer and raised questions about his performance. The minister also alleged that Mehndi had consumed alcohol before appearing on stage.
The exchange was captured on video and subsequently circulated widely, drawing attention to the minister’s conduct towards the singer.
Following the incident, Uniyal explained that he had suspected Mehndi was under the influence of an intoxicating substance. However, he acknowledged that no medical examination had been conducted to establish whether the singer had consumed alcohol or any other intoxicant.
The allegation remains unverified.
Mika Singh Demands Apology From Uttarakhand Minister
Reacting to the incident, Mika Singh defended his brother and called on Subodh Uniyal to apologise for his behaviour.
Mika stated that Daler Mehndi had been suffering from health issues and was still recovering when the incident occurred.
The confrontation also attracted criticism from several quarters, with concerns raised over the treatment of performers at public events. Many called for artists to be treated with dignity and respect.
Uttarakhand CM Seeks to Bring Controversy to an End
As the video of the confrontation continued to circulate, demands for a resolution grew.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s latest remarks indicate his intention to settle the dispute through direct communication with Daler Mehndi and Mika Singh.
By highlighting Uttarakhand’s respect for artists and acknowledging his personal friendship with the singers, Dhami urged those involved to move beyond the controversy and bring the matter to a close.