"Truth Must Come Out": Maninder Buttar Slams Uttarakhand Minister's Shocking Claims
Punjabi singer Maninder Buttar breaks silence after Uttarakhand Minister Subodh Uniyal allegedly claimed he was beaten during a previous visit.
Punjabi music sensation Maninder Buttar has finally responded to the explosive and derogatory remarks allegedly made by an Uttarakhand minister. The singer expressed deep hurt and shock after his name was dragged into a public spat involving veteran singer Daler Mehndi, leading to claims that not only targeted his professional conduct but also insulted his family.
The Spark: A Chaotic Stage Encounter
The controversy erupted during a performance by Daler Mehndi at the Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair in New Tehri. The event took a dramatic turn when BJP minister Subodh Uniyal interrupted the 'Tunak Tunak' singer on stage. The minister reportedly questioned Mehndi's singing abilities and accused him of being under the influence of alcohol during the performance.
However, the situation escalated further when the minister brought up Maninder Buttar. In a startling claim, Uniyal was reportedly heard telling Daler Mehndi in Hindi, "Yahaan aapse pehle Maninder Buttar pit ke gaya tha... aur itna pita tha ki uska baap bhi dobara nahi aa sakta yahaan pe" (Maninder Buttar was beaten up here before you... and he was beaten so badly that even his father cannot come here again).
Maninder Buttar Breaks His Silence
Taking to Instagram Live on Monday, a visibly disappointed Maninder Buttar addressed the allegations. Recalling his actual experience in the state, the singer provided a starkly different account of his 2019 visit to Uttarakhand.
"It was back in 2019, almost seven years ago, when I travelled to Uttarakhand for a show and performed for more than an hour," Maninder stated. He revealed that far from any violence or misconduct, the Hon’ble Minister had actually come on stage to honor him with a traditional Pahadi cap, which the singer wore throughout the entire performance.
A Plea for Transparency
The singer has now challenged the minister to provide evidence for his claims. Maninder has respectfully requested that the minister upload the complete, unedited recording of that 2019 show so the public can judge the truth for themselves.
"I am a very simple person. I have never intentionally hurt anyone’s feelings, never indulged in any kind of misconduct, and have always tried to maintain my dignity,"
Maninder expressed particular anguish over the mention of his father, stating that he has always kept his family away from controversies. He firmly denied ever performing under the influence of any intoxicating substances, emphasizing his commitment to his professional responsibilities.
Mika Singh Steps In to Defend Daler Mehndi
Adding another layer to the controversy, singer Mika Singh has come out in strong support of Daler Mehndi. Mika clarified that Mehndi does not consume alcohol and has been battling health issues for the past two years, from which he is still recovering.
Mika pointed out the hypocrisy in the criticism, noting that while many modern performers rely on backing tracks without question, Daler Mehndi was unfairly targeted. He further revealed that Daler Mehndi was so distressed by the incident that he broke down in tears during a phone call the day after the event.
While Daler Mehndi reportedly asked Mika to let the matter drop, Mika Singh maintained that an apology is necessary. He urged Subodh Uniyal to call the veteran singer and apologize for labeling him an alcoholic, arguing that such public accusations could permanently tarnish a global reputation.