Dehradun, Feb. 24 -- The controversy surrounding Urban Development Minister Premchand Agarwal's statement during the budget session of the Assembly continues to escalate even as the minister has expressed regret claiming that he has been misunderstood. Congress and various organisations have intensified protests across the state over his alleged remarks against the Pahari community, with demands for action against Aggarwal also intensifying on social media.

Amidst the growing opposition, Agarwal has now retreated. After the uproar yesterday, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Prem Chand Aggarwal today expressed regret over his statement made inside the House.

As soon as the proceedings of the fifth day of the budget session began, the oppos...