Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal has strongly refuted reports claiming he apologised to singer Daler Mehndi following their high-profile public confrontation at the Kunjapuri Mela on Oct 18.
Speaking during an interview, Uniyal dismissed the rumours, stating, “Mera maafi maangne ka prashn hi nahi hai” (There is no question of me apologising). He questioned whether he had committed any wrongdoing that warranted an apology, turning the blame back onto the veteran singer.
Uniyal alleged that Mehndi took Rs 26 lakh for the performance but failed to deliver on stage due to ill health, thereby disappointing the public. The minister argued that if Mehndi was unwell, he should have either declined the invitation or informed the audience beforehand.
The denial comes despite circulated reports and a statement from singer Mika Singh’s team suggesting that the minister had expressed regret over the incident.
The controversy erupted during the cultural evening of the Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair in New Tehri, where Uniyal interrupted Mehndi mid-performance and questioned his ability to sing.
While celebrities like Kapil Sharma, Shaan, Rajpal Yadav, and Anupam Kher voiced support for Mehndi, citing his health issues, Uniyal maintains that the fault lies with the singer for failing to fulfil his performance commitments.
