: Continuing his efforts to defuse the escalating controversy surrounding a cabinet colleague’s conduct at a public event, Uttarakhand chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami spoke with singer Daler Mehndi on the phone on Friday to inquire about his well-being and discuss “the recent events”.
Or the demand for a public apology from the minister. Daler Mehndi was performing on stage during Navratri celebrations when Uttarakhand cabinet minister Subodh Uniyal interrupted him, publicly reprimanded him and questioned his conduct over allegations of intoxication. The controversy stems from an incident on Sunday night, October 18, at the Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair in Narendra Nagar, Tehri Garhwal district.
“Our effort is to leave this incident behind and move forward with mutual dialogue, harmony, and a spirit of positivity,” Dhami said in a post on X after the phone call, a reference to the row over Uttarakhand minister Subodh Uniyal’s remarks and confrontation with Mehndi at a public event. The chief minister had spoken with Daler Mehndi’s brother, singer Mika Singh, on Thursday, who hasn’t toned down his pitch.
After a video of the confrontation went viral, Daler’s brother, singer Mika Singh, defended his brother, saying Mehndi did not consume alcohol and that he had been unwell. Mika Singh also demanded that the minister apologise to his brother. “I know Dhami Saab very well. “The way Minister @SubodhUniyal1 ji spoke on stage was extremely rude and disrespectful.
He is a humble, down-to-earth person, and I have great respect for him,” Mika said, referring to the chief minister’s outreach. “I hope this small gesture (apology) will help put the matter to rest and ensure that Daler Bhai’s dignity and reputation are respected,” Mika said. An artist deserves dignity, regardless of the circumstances,” Mika Singh said.
He reiterated the demand on Friday, saying Uniyal could apologise to Mehndi for his remark in a video statement.
