CM Dhami Steps In: Daler Mehndi Controversy Gets Top Intervention
Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami steps in to resolve the clash between singer Daler Mehndi and Minister Subodh Uniyal.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has personally stepped into the fray to resolve the growing Daler Mehndi controversy involving state cabinet minister Subodh Uniyal. In an effort to maintain the state's image of hospitality and respect for the arts, the Chief Minister has initiated direct communication to settle the dispute that has sparked outrage across social media.
The Incident at Maa Kunjapuri Mela
The tension began on October 18, 2026, during a performance by the renowned singer Daler Mehndi at the Maa Kunjapuri Mela in Narendra Nagar, located in the Tehri district. The event took a sour turn when Minister Subodh Uniyal publicly reprimanded the singer during his act. The confrontation was captured on camera and quickly went viral, leading to widespread public criticism of the minister's behavior toward the artist.
CM Dhami’s Diplomatic Approach
Recognizing the sensitivity of the situation, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami held a telephone conversation with Daler Mehndi on October 23, 2026. During the call, the Chief Minister inquired about the singer's well-being and discussed the events of the previous week.
Emphasizing the core Indian value of 'Atithi Devo Bhava' (the guest is God), CM Dhami asserted that Uttarakhand is deeply committed to honoring art, culture, and the artists who represent them. He stressed that the path forward should be one of dialogue, harmony, and a positive perspective to resolve the misunderstanding.
Mika Singh Demands an Apology
The intervention followed a request from the singer's brother, Mika Singh. Before speaking with Daler Mehndi, the Chief Minister had a conversation with Mika Singh, who had been vocal about the incident. Mika Singh explicitly appealed for the Chief Minister's intervention and maintained that an official apology from Minister Subodh Uniyal is necessary to rectify the situation.
Confirming the dialogue, Mika Singh shared a photograph with CM Dhami on the social media platform X, while reiterating his demand for a formal apology from the minister.
The Minister's Defense
Minister Subodh Uniyal has already offered his perspective on the clash. He claimed that his actions were a reaction to pressure from the public at the scene. Furthermore, the minister stated that he was unaware of Daler Mehndi's poor health at the time of the performance.
Characterizing the entire episode as a "misunderstanding," Minister Uniyal expressed regret over the confrontation.
As the situation unfolds, CM Dhami continues to mediate between the parties to ensure that the state's reputation for warmth and hospitality remains untarnished.