Minister Uniyal Apologises, Mika Singh Welcomes Move

Mumbai, October 25: Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal has apologised in the controversy involving Punjabi singer Daler Mehndi, and now Mika Singh has welcomed the gesture. Mika, who had been vocal in defending his brother, said he appreciated the apology and hoped that the dispute would now end on a constructive note.

Mika Singh said, "I appreciate that Subodh Uniyal has apologised for what happened with Daler paaji. Respect for artists and their dignity is essential. Daler paaji is a senior artist who has made a major contribution to the music world, and every artist deserves to be respected. I hope we move past this incident and go forward with mutual respect and understanding."

Mika had earlier expressed strong dissatisfaction with the minister's conduct and had demanded an apology for the remarks made on stage in front of Daler Mehndi. Following the apology, his response has been notably conciliatory. He clarified that his main concern was the respect owed to artists and said he wanted everyone involved to move forward in a spirit of mutual respect.

The matter dates back to the Kunjapuri Mela in Narendranagar, Tehri Garhwal district, where Daler Mehndi had been scheduled to perform live. During the programme, Minister Subodh Uniyal publicly criticised the singer's performance. He claimed that Daler Mehndi was not singing properly and was relying on lip-syncing. The minister also alleged that the singer had come to the event after consuming alcohol. These comments sparked a controversy, and the incident gained significant attention on social media platforms.