📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Archit022
Politics
Uttarakhand Minister Subodh Uniyal Defends Public Reprimand of Singer Daler Mehndi
✍️ The Times of India
🗓 22 Oct 2026, 01:33 AM
👁 10
Uttarakhand minister Subodh Uniyal said Daler Mehndi should not have attended an event while unwell, defending his public criticism of the singer.
Uttarakhand minister Subodh Uniyal publicly rebuked popular singer Daler Mehndi for appearing at a function despite reportedly being unwell. In a statement, Uniyal said the artist should have stayed home to avoid risking public health, adding that his comments were meant to set a responsible example.
When questioned about the tone of his remarks, Uniyal reiterated that officials have a duty to discourage any behaviour that could endanger attendees, especially in the current health climate. He emphasized that the criticism was not personal but aimed at reinforcing public safety norms.
The minister’s defence of the reprimand has drawn attention from media outlets, with observers noting the rare instance of a political figure openly chastising a celebrity for health‑related negligence. No further legal action or formal complaint has been reported.
The episode underscores the growing scrutiny on public gatherings and the expectations placed on both officials and public figures to adhere to health guidelines.
Both Uniyal and Mehndi have not issued additional comments since the initial exchange, and the incident remains a focal point of discussion in regional news circles.
When questioned about the tone of his remarks, Uniyal reiterated that officials have a duty to discourage any behaviour that could endanger attendees, especially in the current health climate. He emphasized that the criticism was not personal but aimed at reinforcing public safety norms.
The minister’s defence of the reprimand has drawn attention from media outlets, with observers noting the rare instance of a political figure openly chastising a celebrity for health‑related negligence. No further legal action or formal complaint has been reported.
The episode underscores the growing scrutiny on public gatherings and the expectations placed on both officials and public figures to adhere to health guidelines.
Both Uniyal and Mehndi have not issued additional comments since the initial exchange, and the incident remains a focal point of discussion in regional news circles.