The controversy involving singer Daler Mehndi and Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal has resurfaced after the minister denied apologising to the singer following their on-stage confrontation. The incident took place on October 18, 2026, during the Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair in New Tehri, where Uniyal interrupted Mehndi’s live performance and accused him of being intoxicated and lip-syncing.
The dispute attracted widespread attention, with several celebrities expressing support for the singer. However, Uniyal’s latest remarks have added another dimension to the ongoing controversy.
Subodh Uniyal Rejects Claims of Apology to Daler Mehndi
Speaking to Satya Vani, Uniyal categorically denied reports that he had apologised to Daler Mehndi over the incident.
“Mera maafi maangne ka prashn hi nahi hai,” he said, making it clear that he saw no reason to apologise. He also questioned whether he had committed any wrongdoing that would warrant an apology.
His statement contradicts earlier reports, including a communication circulated by singer Mika Singh’s team, which suggested that Uniyal had expressed regret to Daler Mehndi during a telephone conversation.
Mika Singh had previously defended his elder brother, emphasising that artists should be treated with dignity and respect.
Minister Questions Singer’s Performance and Fee
During the interview, Uniyal maintained that the responsibility for the disputed performance rested with the singer. He argued that if Mehndi was unwell, he should either have declined the invitation or informed the organisers and audience about his health before performing.
The minister also raised concerns about the fee paid for the concert. According to reports, the amount ranged between ₹26 lakh and ₹36 lakh. Uniyal alleged that the singer failed to meet the audience’s expectations despite receiving a substantial payment.
“Apradh kiya hai Rs. 26 lakh le kar ke janta ki jo umeedein thi, unpe paani pherne ka inhone,” Uniyal said, arguing that the audience had been let down after such a large sum was paid for the performance.
Bollywood Celebrities Extend Support to Daler Mehndi
The October 18 incident sparked reactions from several entertainment industry personalities. Rajpal Yadav, Shaan, Kapil Sharma and Anupam Kher were among those who voiced support for Daler Mehndi, with his reported ill health cited as a factor in the controversy.
Their reactions brought further attention to the dispute and the treatment of the singer during the public event.
Pushkar Singh Dhami Intervenes Amid Growing Controversy
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami also stepped in following the confrontation. He spoke with both Mika Singh and Daler Mehndi, conveying his government’s wish to move beyond the incident and restore harmony.
However, Subodh Uniyal’s latest denial suggests that the disagreement remains unresolved. With conflicting accounts surrounding the alleged apology and the circumstances of the performance, the controversy continues to draw public attention.