MUMBAI, Oct 21: The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking his intervention over the public reprimand of singer Daler Mehndi by Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal during a live performance at a cultural event.
In its letter, the organisation stressed that concerns regarding an artist’s health or performance should be addressed with compassion and discretion rather than through public criticism. A copy of the communication was also sent to Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.
The incident took place on Sunday night during a cultural programme at the Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair in Narendra Nagar. Uniyal reportedly walked onto the stage and expressed displeasure while Mehndi was performing. A video of the exchange circulated widely on social media on Monday, triggering discussion over the treatment of performers at public events.
FWICE said it was aware that Mehndi had been facing health-related difficulties and was recovering from a recent surgery. The organisation also stated that the singer does not consume alcohol, urging people to exercise caution before drawing conclusions about his condition.
The federation emphasised that maintaining discipline and ensuring the smooth conduct of public programmes were important, but such objectives should not come at the expense of an artist’s dignity.
According to FWICE, if a performer appears unwell during a programme, the immediate priority should be to assess their condition and arrange appropriate assistance. Publicly reprimanding an artist, it said, could cause unnecessary embarrassment in front of an audience.
The organisation also highlighted the contribution of artists to India’s cultural heritage, noting that their work helps preserve artistic traditions and strengthens the country’s cultural presence internationally.
FWICE called on public representatives and event organisers to handle such situations responsibly, particularly when questions arise about a performer’s physical well-being. It urged the Prime Minister to reinforce the need for sensitivity and professional respect towards artists participating in public functions.
Established in 1956, FWICE is an umbrella organisation representing workers from India’s film and television industries. It has a reported membership of more than four lakh people.