Lotus will bloom again in Gorakhpur, Phulpur: Keshav Prasad

By Arunav Sinha

Lucknow, Feb 26 (PTI) Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya today expressed confidence that the BJP would sweep the March 11 bypolls to the Gorakhpur and Phulpur Lok Sabha seats.

The bypolls were necessitated after Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Maurya vacated the Gorakhpur and Phulpur seats respectively, following their election to the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council.

"The lotus (BJP's poll symbol) will bloom in both the seats. I have no doubt about this. The very fact that people are talking mostly about the BJP's winning margin is itself an indicator that the party is going to win.

"You can be rest assured that we are going to improve our margin in both the seats," Maurya told PTI in an interview here today.

Taking a jibe at the opposition, he said, "As soon as the bye-elections were announced, the opposition parties started discussing the victory margin. This is a clear indication that the lotus will bloom in Gorakhpur and Phulpur."

The deputy chief minister, a former president of the state BJP, said as far as the vote-share was concerned, "60 per cent is ours and the rest is for the others to share".

On whether he wanted one of his family members to contest from Phulpur, Maurya said, "Party workers, owing to their affection towards me, floated the idea that someone from my family should contest the bypolls.

"However, I am a kaaryakarta-waadi (workers-centric) person, and not a parivaar-waadi (believer in dynastic politics). I am a member of the BJP's big family."

Referring to the BJP's winning show in the 2014 general election and 2017 Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls, he expressed confidence that the "lotus will bloom in 2018 (bypolls) and it will lay a strong foundation for the 2019 Lok Sabha election".

The bye-elections are expected to witness a triangular contest between the ruling BJP, the Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Congress.

The saffron party has fielded Kaushalendra Singh Patel from Phulpur and Upendra Dutt Shukla from Gorakhpur against the SP's Pravin Nishad and Nagendra Pratap Singh Patel respectively.

Sureetha Kareem is the Congress candidate from Gorakhpur. The party has fielded Manish Mishra from Phulpur.

"Voters are very clear as regards which party can usher in development, provide jobs, ensure safety and a robust law-and-order situation in the state. They know that it is the BJP, which is a pro-poor political party, is working to ensure that the benefits of development reach the last person, and also that it can take a tough stand against corruption," Maurya said.

For the BJP, Gorakhpur is significant as it is the bastion of the chief minister, who has represented the seat in the Lok Sabha five times. Prior to Adityanath, the seat was thrice represented in Parliament by his mentor Avaidyanath.

Phulpur, on the other hand, was once the bastion of the Congress and represented by India's first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. It had, for the first time, witnessed a saffron surge in the 2014 Lok Sabha election, when Maurya won the seat.

Voting for the bypolls will be held on March 11 and the results will be declared on March 14.

Bombay HC refuses to defer deadline to link Aadhaar with ration card

Mumbai, Feb 25 (PTI) The Bombay High Court has refused to defer the March 31 deadline imposed by the Union government for linking Aadhaar to ration card. 

A bench of justices Shantanu Kemkar and Rajesh Ketkar, however, directed the Maharashtra government to look into the grievances of technological glitches faced by residents of the state in the digitisation of their ration card, and subsequently, in linking it to their Aadhaar card. The bench was hearing a petition filed by Nashik resident Aziz Pathan. 

According to the plea filed in 2015, the Maharashtra government issued a resolution notifying a scheme for digitisation of ration cards. The scheme was launched in compliance with an order of the apex court and was aimed at streamlining and bringing about more transparency in the public distribution system (PDS).

The scheme includes digitisation of ration cards, installation of electronic point of sale devices at fair price shops and issuance of food grains through biometric authentication. It stipulates including the beneficiaries' Aadhaar numbers in their ration card database. However, according to the plea, several beneficiaries from Nashik district were facing problems in the digitisation of their ration card, and their biometric authentication. 

Pathan said there were inconsistencies in the biometric machines and the upgraded ration cards of several residents of Nashik bore incorrect names, addresses, and employment and caste details. He said because of these inconsistencies, the residents were facing difficulties in linking their Aadhaar cards with ration cards and as a result, the linking process was getting delayed. Pathan urged the court to grant an interim relief by deferring the March 31 deadline, and directing the state government to ensure the affected citizens did not lose out on receiving food grain subsidies and other benefits under the PDS, if they failed to link the ration cards with the Aadhaar by March 31 this year. 

The bench, however, refused to defer the deadline saying that going by Pathan's plea, it seemed the problem was limited to Nashik district alone. The court asked Pathan to approach the state authorities for redressal of his grievance. 

The bench also directed the Maharashtra government's food, civil supplies and consumer protection department to grant an urgent hearing to Pathan, and to address his grievance within a week's time. The bench, on February 23, directed the department to look into the reasons for such frequent mistakes in the digitisation process across Nashik. 

"We are of the opinion that the grievance is mainly restricted to Nashik district. We think the petitioner can approach the food supplies department in Mantralaya (the state secretariat) and make a representation there and apprise the authorities of the issues faced by citizens in his district," the bench said. 

"The secretary of the department concerned must also treat this petition as a representation and look into the problems faced by the residents in the digitisation of their ration cards," the bench said. "We expect the secretary to take appropriate decision expeditiously and within a maximum period of one week," it said.

PSG coach 'optimistic' injured Neymar will recover to face Real

Paris, Feb 25 (AFP) Paris Saint-Germain coach Unai Emery remains optimistic that superstar Neymar will be fit to face Real Madrid in their do-or-die Champions League clash despite suffering an ankle injury in Sunday's 3-0 victory over Marseille.

Neymar, the world's most expensive footballer, was stretchered off 10 minutes from time at the Parc des Princes as PSG opened up a 14-point lead in Ligue 1.

The 26-year-old was on his own when he innocuously rolled his ankle and flopped to the ground in pain.

"The first examination in the locker room revealed that it was a twist to the ankle. Now we will do a medical examination to find out what this twist is," said Emery, whose team face Real at home on March 6 in the Champions League last 16 where they need to overturn a 3-1 deficit.

"We will wait for the examination, we will be optimistic. If I had to say today (whether or not he will face Real) I would rather say yes to being optimistic."

PSG skipper Thiago Silva told Canal: "Neymar already had a swollen ankle. I am not a doctor, but I don't think he'll be available on Wednesday (when PSG face Marseille again in the French Cup). He has to rest."

It was an otherwise easy night for the big-spending Parisians as teenager Kylian Mbappe became the youngest scorer in the French 'Classique'.

Uruguayan goal-machine Edinson Cavani was also on the scoresheet while Neymar had a hand in PSG's other goal.

With Monaco drawing 3-3 at Toulouse on Saturday and Lyon held 1-1 at home to local rivals Saint-Etienne earlier on Sunday, it meant none of PSG's three nearest challengers managed to win.

Monaco remain second with Marseille third, two points behind, and Lyon a further five adrift.

This result was never in doubt and Emery even had the luxury of bringing off Mbappe, 19, after an hour to give Argentine international Angel Di Maria a half-hour run out.

PSG were off to a flying start through Mbappe but Marseille were in part the architects of their own downfall.

France midfielder Adrien Rabiot tried to thread a through ball on 10 minutes to Mbappe, cutting in from the right.

Former Aston Villa full-back Jordan Amavi was in place to intercept the ball but he slipped and succeeded only helping it onto teenage star Mbappe, who jinked inside onto his left foot and dragged a low shot inside Yohann Pele's near post.

As expected, the hosts were dictating the tempo and dominating the ball, but Neymar was off target with a header from a Dani Alves cross.

The second came before the half hour mark, though, and again it owed much to poor Marseille defending.

Layvin Kurzawa slipped Rabiot into the inside left channel in the visitors' box and he picked out Brazilian Neymar with a cut-back.

The forward's poked finish was heading off target until his compatriot and Marseille centre-back Rolando thrust out a boot and inadvertently directed the ball into the goal.

- Showboating - 

 ===============

The match was as good as over and PSG had barely needed to break sweat. Ten minutes before half time and the men in blue were already breaking out the showboating tricks and flicks, with Rabiot's backheel setting up Neymar to curl a long-range strike just past the post.

Marseille barely had a sniff and when midfielder Andre Anguissa got up to meet a header in the box, it looped up harmlessly and landed in goalkeeper Alphonse Areola's arms.

It took just 10 more minutes after the break for PSG to extend their advantage as Neymar was allowed time and space to reach the byline on the left.

His cross picked out Cavani, whose first touch with his left was sublime to turn marker Rolando, while his right-footed finish was unstoppable.

Marseille were barely putting up a fight, but substitute Clinton N'Jie managed to get himself booked for needlessly lashing out at Marquinhos and then clashing with Dani Alves, who also saw yellow.

After Neymar was stretchered off, the pacey N'Jie almost gave Marseille hope but having rounded Areola, his goal-bound effort was cleared off the line by sliding PSG captain Thiago Silva.

Areola also made smart saves to deny Florian

Sridevi: The diva who lit up Indian cinema screen

Mumbai, Feb 25 (PTI) Those expressive eyes and the mischievous smile sent hearts aquiver and lit up the cinema screens, making Sridevi Bollywood's first female superstar.

Sridevi's sudden death at the age of 54 in Dubai due to cardiac arrest yesterday has left family and fans in shock and grief. This 'Chandni' left the world too soon.

The actor, wife of producer Boney Kapoor, died late at Saturday night reportedly due to cardiac arrest in Dubai, where she had gone along with her family to attend her nephew Mohit Marwah's wedding.

In an impressive career, spanning five-decades, the actor ruled the commercial cinema space in the '80s and '90s like no heroine had done before.

In an industry dominated by male superstars, Sridevi reversed the trend by her sheer acting prowess. Her name, most of the times, was a guarantee enough for a film's success.

An extremely shy person in real life, Sridevi came alive in front of the cameras, playing a variety of roles. Such was her popularity that her style and dance moves would be copied by her fans country over. She was 'Miss Hawa Hawaaii' and 'Chandni' for them.

Sridevi started acting at the age of four and made her debut with M A Thirumugham's "Thunaivan". She continued acting in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada films but it was her career in Bollywood that made her a household name in the country.

She made her Bollywood debut as a child artiste in 1975 hit "Julie" but continued ruling the South Indian film industry where she established herself as a leading heroine with films such as "16 Vayathinile", "Sigappu Rojakkal", "Meendum Kokila" and "Moondram Pirai".

In Bollywood, she made her debut in 1978 as a lead actor in "Solva Sawan".

She gained commercial success with the 1983 film "Himmatwala" opposite Jeetendra, which also established her as one of the best dancers in cinema. She was grace-personified dressed as an apsara (a celestial beauty in Hindu mythology) performing on the hit track 'Nainon mein sapna'.

The year 1983 also saw Sridevi give stellar performances in both critically acclaimed and box-office hits such as "Sadma", where she played the role of a woman who loses her memory.

Both she and actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan played the roles in the Hindi remake of their 1982 Tamil movie, "Moondram Pirai". The climax of the heart-wrenching movie was deemed as poetic as the entire plot, with the song 'Ae zindagi gale laga le' as an ode to the philosophy of uncertainty in life.

Sridevi followed it up with a number of commercial hits such as "Mawaali", "Tohfa", "Masterji" and "Nazrana".

In 1987 came Shekhar Kapur's "Mr India", a film which was produced by her future husband Boney Kapoor.

Sridevi gave a memorable performance as crime reporter Seema Sohni. She was one of the few female actors who left the audience spellbound with both her comic timing and sensuality.

How her undercover scribe transformed into Ms Hawa Hawaaii, thanks to her dancing skills in one of the popular songs, is one of the most memorable scenes of the film.

Owing to the cult status the song went on to achieve, the Kavita Krishnamurthy number has been recreated a number of times in films such as "Shaitan" and most recently in Vidya Balan's "Tumhari Sulu".

And so will 'Kaate nahi kat-te', an iconic sultry number which saw the actor romance an invisible man in a song revelling in a never-before-seen boldness and fantasy.

Filmmaker Yash Chopra cast her in the title role of "Chandni" in the 1989 film, another iconic film of her career. Such was her performance in the film that fans came to recognise her with the name of Chandni.

Impressed with her performance in the film, Chopra cast her again in "Lamhe" in a dual role, where she played the mother and the daughter.

It did not do well at the box office at that time but has come to be known one the best films of Sridevi, Chopra and Anil Kapoor's careers. The film was said to be ahead of its times as it dealt with a woman falling for an older man who is in love with her dead mother.

Her other major box office hits of the era were "Chaalbaaz", where she played the role of twins, "Nagina", and "Khuda Gawah" opposite Amitabh Bachchan.

Her pairing with Anil Kapoor, her "Mr India" co-star and brother-in-law, was particularly successful and she would work with him again in "Laadla" and "Judaai".

After "Judaai", Sridevi took a break from acting to focus on her marriage with Boney Kapoor. She had two daughters -- Janhvi and Khushi -- with Kapoor.

The actor made a successful comeback to cinema 15 years later with Gauri Shinde's "English Vinglish", playing a housewife who learns English after feeling left out in her family.

She also had a starring role in Tamil film "Puli" and followed "English Vinglish" with another successful outing in "Mom", which also featured Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Akshaye Khanna.

The actor's elder daughter Janhvi is on the cusp of her own cinematic journey with "Dhadak", a remake of the Marathi blockbuster "Sairat". Unfortunately, Sridevi will not be there to witness it.

add add I was astounded by Sridevi's rise, says Kamal Haasan

Chennai, Feb 25 (PTI) Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan has said legendary actor Sridevi surprised him with her dedication to the craft of acting and he was blown away by her ability to grow as an artiste.

The diva, who passed away late last night in Dubai at the age of 54 reportedly due to cardiac arrest, had acted with the actor in 27 films, including director K Balachander's "Moondru Mudichu", which also featured South superstar Rajinikanth.

In a video message, Haasan remembered Sridevi as an "astounding talent", which was "no luck" but a result of her hard-working nature throughout a career spanning almost five decades.

"Sridevi Kapoor's astounding talent was no luck. It was well-deserved and she worked for it from her childhood. I'm also a child actor, I've known her from her teens. She was still a child then when she came to work with me and Mr Balachander, my mentor sometimes gave me the responsibility of working with her, correcting her and shaping her acting, even her dance moves.

"When she came she was not as talented as she is, she was. But she developed everyday she learnt. I was astounded by her climb and every step of it she worked for. She was very fond of me and I was very fond of her. We were working so continuously that our personal lives were on the periphery... So the kind of dedication she had truly matched mine and so it's no wonder that we were fond of each other," the 63-year-old actor said.

Haasan recounted his last meeting with Sridevi which took place in January.

"We were not prone to showing emotion but we both hugged each other and I'm very grateful for that hug... 'Sadma' song rings in my ears now. I think that (is) favourite lullaby for this talented, beautiful Sridevi. That's our lullaby for her," he added talking about the Yesudas song "Surmayi ankhiyon mein" from the 1983 hit movie.

The actor also praised his deceased co-star as a dedicated mother to her two daughters - Janhvi and Khushi and offered his condolences to her husband, producer Boney Kapoor.

Fans gather outside Sridevi's house, mortal remains to arrive tonight

Mumbai, Feb 25 (PTI) The air outside Sridevi's residence is heavy with grief as fans of the veteran actor continue to queue up to catch one last glimpse of their 'Chandni'.

Sridevi, 54, died late at Saturday night reportedly due to cardiac arrest in Dubai, where she had gone to attend her nephew Mohit Marwah's wedding.

Ever since the news broke out, Sridevi's Lokhandwala home - where she used to live with her husband Boney Kapoor and two daughters Janhvi and Khushi - witnessed a steady stream of ardent fans assembling outside her house to pay their respects.

According to an Airports Authority of India source, a private jet is being flown to Dubai to carry the late actor's mortal remains.

The aircraft which will bring Sridevi's body is likely to depart from Mumbai around 1 pm and will arrive in Dubai at 4 pm. It is expected to reach Mumbai around 8 pm.

Meanwhile, no celebrity has visited her residence yet.

Two police vans have been stationed and the security, too, has been beefed up to avoid any commotion outside her residence.

The actor, who started off her career down South as a child artiste, became a prominent Bollywood star in the early '80s with box-office hits such as "Mawaali" (1983), "Tohfa" (1984), "Mr India" (1987) and "Chandni" (1989) among others to her credit.

Her outings in "Sadma" (1983), "ChaalBaaz" (1989), "Lamhe" (1991), and "Gumrah" (1993) earned her critical acclaim, establishing her as one of the most sought after actors of her era.

Sridevi went on a hiatus for 15 years after starring in home production -- "Judaai" -- co-starring with her brother-in-law actor Anil Kapoor and Urmila Matondkar.

It was director Gauri Shinde's "English Vinglish" in 2012 that marked her comeback to the silver screen.

Sridevi was last seen in revenge-drama -- "Mom" -- alongside Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Akshaye Khanna. She shot for a special appearance in superstar Shah Rukh Khan's upcoming film -- "Zero" -- which releases in December.

After shooting, students make emotional return to Florida school

Washington, Feb 26 (AFP) Students and teachers returned to a Florida school for the first time since 17 people were killed there, consoling each other even as they called for swift action to address gun violence.

"Imagine (being) in a plane crash and then having to get on the same plane every day and fly somewhere else -- it's never going to be the same," David Hogg, a survivor of the February 14 shooting at a Parkland, Florida high school, told ABC television's "This Week."

The school held a voluntary "orientation" Sunday, with teachers and staff due back starting Monday and classes resuming on Wednesday -- a prospect described as "daunting" and "scary," but which is also a step for survivors to move forward after the attack.

One teacher who had already been back told NPR radio that the shock of returning to a classroom left exactly as it had been during the attack -- notebooks still on desks, the calendar still set to February 14 -- made her so physically ill she had to leave.

But Cameron Kasky, a student who survived the attack, tweeted a picture of people on campus, saying: "It is GOOD TO BE HOME."

"I have all my friends here with me and it just makes me feel like I'm not alone in this situation," student Michelle Dittmeier, who attended the orientation, told ABC.

Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School also received support from alumni, with previous graduating classes making banners to decorate the school, the WSVN news reported.

Amid ardent demands by students like Hogg for action, President Donald Trump has said he is open to raising the minimum age for gun purchases and to banning so-called bump stocks, which can effectively convert semi-automatic weapons into automatic firearms.

Speaking at the Governors Ball ahead of meetings with the top officials from all 50 states on Monday, Trump said that school safety is a top priority: "I think we'll make that first on our list."

A new CNN poll, conducted a week after the Florida shooting, shows surging public support for stricter gun laws -- surpassing levels seen even after other horrific shootings of recent years -- and for a ban on powerful semi-automatic weapons like the AR-15 used in Parkland.

Overall, 70 percent of those surveyed said they supported stricter gun laws, up from 52 percent in October, and 57 percent favored a ban on semi-automatic arms, an increase from 49 per cent.

Florida Governor Rick Scott has laid out a plan to station a police officer at every public school in the state, raise the legal age for gun purchases from 18 to 21 and pass a "red flag" law for authorities to more easily remove guns from the mentally ill or people with violent histories.

The age change and "red flag" law are staunchly opposed by the influential National Rifle Association, of which Scott is a member.

Scott, who holds the NRA's highest rating of A+, noted on "Fox News Sunday" that "there will be some that disagree. But... I want my state to be safe."

Trump had Scott stand up to applause on Sunday, telling him: "You're doing a great job."

Florida was also the scene of a June 2016 shooting at an Orlando nightclub that left 49 people dead.

Hema Malini condoles Sridevi's death

File Photo

Mathura, Feb 25 (PTI) Actor-turned-politician Hema Malini today condoled the death of Sridevi, saying she had achieved the highest position in Bollywood because of her dedication to her work.

"I value her for her sanskars as in spite of achieving the highest position of 'superstar' in Bollywood, she never compromised with the south Indian sanskars inculcated in her," Hema Malini said.

She said she can't believe Sridevi was no more.

Hema Malini said Sridevi was healthy and energetic when she had met her recently.

Sridevi achieved the highest position in Bollywood because of her work and dedication, she said.

Sridevi, who charmed audience with her stellar performances in films such as 'Mr India', 'Chaalbaaz' and 'Lamhe' passed away in Dubai last night. She was 54.

Rupee gains 6 paise against dollar in opening trade

Mumbai, Feb 26 (PTI) The rupee strengthened by 6 paise to 64.67 against the dollar at the forex market today on fresh selling of the American currency by exporters and banks amid strength in domestic equities.

Dealers said dollar's weakness against other currencies overseas and early gains in domestic equity markets supported the rupee.

On Friday, the rupee had gained 31 paise to end at 64.73 against the US dollar.

The dollar eased after climbing Friday on the back of the comments from the US Fed cementing expectations of more aggressive US rate hikes this year.

The euro's gains, however, are being tamed by uncertainty ahead of elections in Italy, one of the eurozone's biggest economies.

Meanwhile, the benchmark BSE Sensex rose by 133.78 points, or 0.39 per cent, to 34,275.93 in opening trade today.

According to the provisional exchange data, foreign investors sold shares worth Rs 486.32 crore on net basis on Friday.

add add Former Cabinet secretary T S R Subramanian passes away

New Delhi, Feb 26 (PTI) Former Cabinet secretary T S R Subramanian has passed away, officials said today. He was 79.

Extremely shocked to hear the sad news of the demise of T S R Subramanian. He was the tallest amongst all and is a big loss for the IAS fraternity and the nation. Deepest condolences to all family members. We hope and pray that your ideas and thoughts will continue to guide us, the IAS association said in a tweet.

His cremation will take place at the Lodhi Road crematorium here at 5.30 pm, the association said.

Subramanian was the Cabinet secretary from August 1, 1996, to March 31, 1998.

The cause of death and other details were immediately not known.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of State (MoS) for Personnel Jitendra Singh and other senior IAS officers have condoled his death.

Former Cabinet secretary T S R Subramanian is no more. Saddened by the news. He was affable, full of ideas and energetic. In many a debate on TV channels, shared thoughts with him. Condolences to his family and his fraternity, she said.

The MoS said, "Saddened by news of the demise of former Cabinet secretary T S R Subramanian. My condolences to the entire IAS fraternity and his family."

Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy, Anil Swarup, said: Bichde sab bari bari (all left one by one)."

One of the most outstanding officer T S R Subramanian is no more. Rest in Peace. RIP, he said on Twitter.

Sensex rises 134 pts; Nifty tops 10,500 on global cues

Mumbai, Feb 26 (PTI) The benchmark BSE Sensex rose over 134 points today on sustained buying in key frontline counters led by metal, auto, capital goods and banking stocks.

Sentiments bolstered in all Asian markets following positive cues from Wall Street.

Also, continued buying by domestic institutional investors (DIIs) and strengthening rupee boosted market mood, brokers said.

The BSE Sensex rose 133.78 points, or 0.39 per cent, to 34,275.93. All sectoral indices were trading 

higher, led by metals, auto, capital goods and banking stocks that gained up to 1.34 per cent.

The gauge had gained 322.65 points in the previous session on Friday.

The broader Nifty 50 index was also trading above the key 10,500-level at 10,529.10, a gain of 38.05 points, or 0.36 per cent.

Major gainers were Tata Motors, Adani Ports, Bajaj Auto and Maruti, rising up to 2.26 per cent.

On a net basis, DIIs bought equities to the tune of Rs 1,514.03 crore, while foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 486.32 crore on Friday, provisional data showed.

Among Asian markets, Japan's Nikkei was trading higher by 0.82 per cent. Hong Kong's Hang Seng up 0.54 per cent and Shanghai Composite 0.31 per cent higher.

The US Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 1.39 per cent higher on Friday's trade.

May to make key Brexit speech next Friday: Downing Street

London, Feb 23 (AFP) Prime Minister Theresa May will make a keynote speech next Friday on Britain's relationship with the EU after Brexit following a "very positive" meeting of her senior ministers, her spokesman said. "The prime minister will be setting out more detail of the government's position on Friday," he said. 

Confirmation of the much-anticipated speech comes after May gathered around a dozen of her senior ministers for an "away day" at her country retreat in Chequers yesterday. 

Their discussions lasted eight hours as they sought to thrash out their considerable differences on how closely aligned Britain should stay with the EU once it leaves the single market and customs union. "It was a very positive meeting and a step forward, agreeing a basis of the prime minister's speech on our future relationship," the spokesman said. 

The full cabinet will discuss the plans at their regular weekly meeting on Tuesday. The prime minister's speech is expected to take place somewhere in Britain, after May chose Florence, Italy for her last big Brexit address in September.

Nyay yatra a flop, Tejashwi's statements absurd: Sushil Modi

Patna, Feb 22 (PTI) Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi today lambasted RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, terming his state-wide "Nyay Yatra" as a flop and charging him with making "absurd statements to gain sympathy". The senior BJP leader was responding to allegations by Yadav, the leader of the opposition in the state assembly, that the Nitish Kumar government was getting his phones tapped and attempts had been made to lace his food with poisonous and narcotic substances. "Who would dare to touch a person whose elder brother had the temerity to threaten that the Prime Minister would be skinned", Sushil remarked sarcastically in a tweet. 

The Bihar Deputy CM was referring to the outbursts of Tej Pratap Yadav, Tejashwi's elder brother, who had said in November last year that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would be skinned if his father and RJD supremo Lalu Prasad suffered any physical harm after downgrading of security cover. "It is a family which remained in power for 15 years, recalling which people of Bihar still shudder. Whom do people, who became MLAs and ministers by virtue of the family's dynasty politics, fear for their lives", Sushil added. After the Grand Alliance's victory in the 2015 assembly polls in Bihar, Tejashwi Yadav had become the Deputy CM while Tej Pratap was made the health minister. The two brothers had made successful electoral debut in the polls. 

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar walked out of the alliance last year following corruption cases against Tejashwi Yadav and formed a new government with the BJP. "People are making absurd statements to gain sympathy after the Nyay Yatra has turned out to be a flop", Sushil Modi said in response to Tejashwi Yadav's allegation yesterday that the Nitish Kumar government had hatched a "serious conspiracy" to derail his state-wide tour. 

In an obvious dig at Tej Pratap's statement that Nitish and Sushil had "let loose ghosts" inside the bungalow allotted to him while he was the health minister, the Deputy CM said "Nitish Kumar had, six months ago, showed the maha bhoots (big ghosts) their place. They had been misusing their political position to grab land and build malls, flats and farm houses". The entire family of Lalu Prasad is facing probe by the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate in cases relating to money laundering and benami land transactions. 

"Ghosts would soon be driven away from all government bungalows", Sushil said in an obvious reference to Tejashwi Yadav who is yet to vacate the bungalow allotted to him, adjacent to the CM's official residence, while he was the Deputy Chief Minister.

Editor-in-chief of 'National Herald' passes away

Chennai, Feb 24 (PTI) Veteran journalist and editor-in-chief of Delhi-based National Herald, Neelabh Mishra, died at a private hospital here today following an illness. Congress chief Rahul Gandhi condoled the demise of Mishra, and described him an as "editor's editor." "National Herald announces the passing away of our editor-in-chief, leader and friend Neelabh Mishra, aged 57, on February 24. 

He is survived by his long-time partner Kavita Srivastava, brother Shailoj Kumar, sister-in-law Sudha, and niece Nawasha," a statement put up on the 'National Herald' website said. Mishra, who was admitted to Apollo Hospital in Chennai earlier this month, "was critically ill with complications resulting from non-alcoholic liver cirrhosis," it said. "He developed multiple organ failure before a liver transplant could be carried out. He breathed his last (today) surrounded by his relatives, friends and comrades," the statement said. 

His cremation is scheduled at Nungambakkam here later in the day, sources close to him said. In 2016, Mishra 'steered' the re-launch of National Herald, founded by former prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, as a digital news website, the statement said. 

Last year, he re-launched the 'National Herald on Sunday' newspaper, and then its sister publications 'Navjivan' and 'Qaumi Awaz' as news websites, the statement added. 

Mishra started off his over three decades of journalistic career as a reporter with 'Navbharat Times' in his hometown Patna in Bihar and later moved to Rajasthan as the Jaipur correspondent for 'News Time'. He also set up Eenadu TV in Rajasthan in 1998, it said adding, prior to his stint in 'National Herald', he worked as Editor of 'Outlook Hindi' for several years. Meanwhile, Gandhi condoled the death of Mishra. "A man who spoke truth to power. 

An institution builder. On Neelabh Mishra's tragic passing away this morning, my deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and admirers. #NationalHerald," he said in a tweet from his official handle 'Office of RG.

Modi, Trudeau discuss terrorism, trade ties

Photo Courtesy by PTI 

New Delhi, Feb 23 (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau on Friday held extensive talks on key issues of counter-terrorism and extremism as well as ways to boost trade ties, after which the two sides inked six pacts, including on energy cooperation After their nearly two-hour long meeting, Modi, while addressing a joint media event with the Canadian prime minister, said they discussed the entire gamut of the bilateral partnership Asserting that it is important that the two countries work together to fight terrorism, Modi said there should be no place for those who misuse religion for political goals. 

The prime minister also made it clear that those who challenge India's sovereignty and unity will not be tolerated Modi's remarks come amidst criticism of the Trudeau government's soft approach towards the Khalistan issue. 

Observing that Trudeau has visited various parts of India in last few days, Modi said the Canadian leader must have experienced the diversity of the country. 

On his part, Trudeau described India as a natural partner for commercial cooperation. Earlier, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj called on the Canadian prime minister and discussed various issues of mutual interest Swaraj had a warm meeting with Trudeau and discussed ways to strengthen and deepen the partnership between the two countries, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

Rasbatiya

(Short Story)

Realistic Rural woman painting by ilayaraja

This time the monsoon was delay and was not enough to harvest the farm of fill up the big ponds the river Ghagra keep flowing neither Grandmother's tricks nor children's tricks of unclothing succeeded in the rain. Only one sound come from everywhere "all clouds gives water". On the request of children God gave the water but that too like the urine of God India. Rain water was not enough as the small ponds were also not filled up. Only mud and mud everywhere. Like the clouds were there lightning sounds were also heard it was appearing that it will rain heavily. After that we will go to our grand nana's place and enjoy the sweets and drinks over there. But the almighty's vision was something else. Now with the water of tube well we are sowing the crop of rice. If the crop will not grow as required then we will be of a very little value.

Suddenly Rasbatia went quiet and spanking on her forehead. She said after a long time men has come back and I was busy telling tales. OK leave it tell me how is the food cooked.

Just like Holy water.

Oh shaking her head and covering her face with saree she turned. After several months seeing her husband back se was so glad that it was appearing like whole lot of love was clearly visible in her eyes.

In the village there were so many unemployed and very few were employed and of low income. Only some who have earned much education that person say bye to village. After becoming at order age Ram Avtar also did the same his mother wept and cried but of no use. Ram Avtar left for the city.

After his marriage Ram avtar went to city to earn rupees after one year he has come back to his village and when frisked by Rasbatia Ram Avtar says whenever there was a whisper then the veins of brain started humming and a felling of insecurity then only the remembrance of  village comes through. There is no any musical instrument in the city nor any folk songs being sung only the people are vanishing in the crowd and the customs & traditions are being blown out of air. Remixes are there in the city. In air conditioned chambers people sitting and giving the description of clouds and Baba Kalidas and Tulsidas singing Chumma-Chumma.

And talking in the same manner Ram Avtar went silent. Oh I am also talking meaningless. Tell me how are you and what's the news about village. Oh, don’t ask the news of the village here a canal was being dug up. In that case village head was murdered and on the other hand Satrohna………… saying this Rasbatia went numb. What happened to Satrohna. Ram Avtar spooked Rasbatia. Rasbatia replied. In this Dussehra Holidays his Chachi fixed his wedding with the daughter of teacher Trilochan of Badhaipurwa. Bedhuni only one week passed of the marriage that there was a call from army that in the KARGIL Pakistani soldiers have attacked. Chachi told him that Pakistani soldiers are very cruel beware of them.

Satrohna went back after seven days a letter came that he had reached safely and now he is being sent to KARGIL. Badhuni heaved a sign of relief and then started praying Goddesses. Here in the village rumours went around some say that Pakistani have captured KARGIL but some other say that Government is hiding the truth and Pakistani soldiers have entered too far. Some say that our country has suffered a huge loss. But some say that no it's not like this our army has driven them back.

A day passed by there was no news about Satrohna. Budhani served her mother in law used to cook food and made her mother in law eat. She used to work ship all Gods and Goddess but no news about Satrohna. No letter came from Satrohna's end.

On the day of Kalipuja Budhani cooked delicacies and served for her mother in law. After her mother in law had those delicious foods when she herself sat to have those delicacies she thought that her lips have dried up by the thirst and hunger. By the cold her body colour began to turn blue. Badhuni threw the bite on the floor she was going to eat.

Why are you doing like this asked her mother in law. Being a bahu of house you should not throw the bite on the floor. It is unfair Badhuni turned red faced. Again she tried to have one more bite from her plate. But same thing happened she felt tasteless and unable to chew but again she thought that same unusual could happen to her husband so she ate that bite but vomited. Then her mother in law did not forced her to eat. She began to think that now her tongue has lost the taste of delicious foods. As she had also lost the taste fifteen years back.

OK enough is enough now I can't hear Rasbatia. Only tell me where is Badhuni. He asked with heavy heart.

After the death of her husband people of the village started commenting they use to say that she is a witch as she has taken the life of her husband. She lived until her mother in law was alive. When her mother in law died she also had rat poison and ended her life. Saying the Rasbatia eyes were also filled with tears that hugging Ram Avtar. She said you will not go to city again leaving me.

Ram Avtar began to think about it that Rasbatia is right. Upto how much he will run in the city due to fear of his boss threats from moneylenders and  the grocers. Then he saw some ants climbing up the wall. He began to think that when these small creatures do not leave hope till their end. Then why should he leave his village from the problems. At last happy days will also come in my life and on that day I will blow the bugle.

He was lost in these thoughts then Rasbatia hooked him. Wake up its raining heavily get inside the house. I have cooked the pakories of besan and onion for you.

By Ravindra Prabhat 
Indian Short story writer, novelist,journalist,poet and blog critic.

Website: http://www.ravindraprabhat.in/
Email: ravindra.prabhat@gmail.com

 () () ()

Next Parikalpana's International Hindi Utsav to be held in Mauritius.

Logo of International hindi Utsav, Mauritius/ Trend today 

Lucknow (Staff Reporter): "Hindi is getting established as a reputed language not only in India but across the world. Apart from movies and literature, blogging which has established itself as a form of new media is also helping in the spread of Hindi. So main objective of the Parikalpana's  International Hindi Utsav is to create ground for development of Hindi blogging in the World, promote Hindi literature and Indian culture, and provide opportunities for language harmony and cultural study and tourism in the world." Said Ravindra Prabhat  yesterday in Lucknow. 

Chief Editor of Parikalpana Samay and Organizer of ‘International Hindi Utsav’ Mr. Ravindra Prabhat said that after having successfully organized the conference in Delhi (India), Lucknow (India), Kathmandu (Nepal), Thimphu & Paro (Bhutan), Colombo & Kandy (Sri Lanka), Bangkok  & Pataya (Thailand), Auckland, Hamilton & Rotorua (New Zealand), Singapore,  Kualalumpur & Johor Bahru (Malaysia) and Bali & Jakarta in Indonesia. This time next International Hindi Utsav will be organized from 2nd Sept. 2018 to 8th Sept. 2018 in Mauritius. 

The host of this International Hindi Utsav Mr. Ravindra Prabhat Said that the Prime Minister of India Mr. Narendra Modi has emphasized on historical and cultural relation between India and the out side of world and sought to promote co-operation and harmony between the all countries. This Hindi Utsav being organized in Mauritius is an effort in the same direction.

Mr. Ravindra Prabhat said that on this occasion celebrities from the field of blogging, literature, social and cultural world will be felicitated.

Mr. Prabhat said that during the Hindi Utsav, study of Hindi in global perspective especially in Mauritius, promotion of Hindi literature, various dimensions of blogging as new media and role of Social Media in changing times etc. will be discussed. Indian folk singers & dancers will be performed on the stage. Exhibited Indian folk art and culture. These are traditional painting & Kavi Sammelan also performed. 

India has nothing to worry about China-Bangla ties: Sheikh Hasina

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina./ File Photo   

Dhaka (PTI): Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has asked India not to worry about Dhaka’s growing ties with China, asserting that the cooperation with Beijing was meant only for the country’s development. Ms. Hasina said her government was only concerned about the development, and is ready to cooperate with any country that helps Bangladesh’s growth. “We want investment and cooperation from whoever offers it. 

We want development of the country... We have to think about our people as they are the beneficiaries of the development,” Ms. Hasina on Tuesday told a delegation of visiting Indian journalists at her official residence. She said India, China, Japan and even the Middle Eastern countries were coming to Bangladesh for cooperation. “India has nothing to be worried about it,” Ms. Hasina said. “I will [rather] suggest India should have good relations with its neighbours, including Bangladesh, so this region could be developed further and we can show the world that we all work together,” she said. Ms. Hasina, 70, said Bangladesh and India shared “excellent” ties and the two countries have set an example of solving problems like maritime and boundary disputes. 

“If there is any problem, we could solve it through discussions as we did it in the past. We want to build a peaceful South Asia,” Ms. Hasina said. She said that during her 1996-2001 tenure, the two countries had signed the Ganges water treaty while in her second term maritime and boundary issues were resolved. China has vowed to boost military-to-military relations with Bangladesh by stepping up defence ties, including broadening of personnel training and cooperation in equipment technology.  

Earlier, China said it planned to provide Bangladesh with a whopping $9 billion low-interest loan to build six rail projects including one close to the Indian border. Ms. Hasina also sought India’s support in repatriation of over a million Rohingyas to Myanmar, fearing that their prolonged stay in Bangladesh could create security risks. “We want India to put pressure on Myanmar so they quickly take back their displaced people,” she said. Ms. Hasina directed the foreign office to hold a dialogue with five countries, including India, which have borders with Myanmar, hoping that the initiative will help in solving the Rohingya crisis. 

 “The monsoon is nearing and keeping the Rohingyas in this way [in makeshift camps] is very risky for Bangladesh as well as for them,” she said. The journalists from Kolkata and New Delhi are on a visit to Bangladesh to participate in a three-day Bangladesh-India media dialogue.

2-day cultural festival in Varanasi on cleanliness, to be telecast live on Youtube

Man Mandir Ghat, where the festival shall be held. (Youtube)

Varanasi (PTI): Varanasi will host a two day festival- Swachhagrah ‘Bapu ko Kaaryaanjaliâ’- on February 21 and February 22 to bring focus to cleanliness by using different forms of culture, the ministry of culture said. 

The festival will be held at the Man Mandir Ghat and Assi Ghat in Varanasi in the presence of Minister of State for Culture Mahesh Sharma. 

 “The Mahotsav will integrate the tangible and intangible heritage along the river-belt and will see the engagement of the academia, artists, artisans, writers, poets, environmental and cultural forums on the use of cultural expressions for conservation and protection of the river and the ancient city,” a statement from the ministry said. 

An exhibition on Varanasi by the National Archives will be held at the Man Mandir ghat. The National Gallery of Modern Art in partnership with the Fine Arts School of BHU will conduct painting and terracotta-sculpture workshops for students of the Cultural Interpretation Centres set up in several schools by the ministry. 

Installations and large canvases drawn by children on the theme of Swachhta will be exhibited at prominent places and ghats of the city. The live coverage of the festival will be telecast on YouTube channel of Sanskriti.goi from 6 pm onwards on February 21 and 22.

Priyanka Chopra’s ‘immodest frock’ creates controversy in Assam, tourism minister comes to her defence.

Indo Asian News Service

Priyanka Chopra speaks to reporters at the premiere of the film A Kid Like Jake at Eccles Theatre during the Sundance Film Festival. (Arthur Mola/Invision/AP)

A day after the opposition Congress legislators in the Assam legislative Assembly demanded removal of actor Priyanka Chopra as the brand ambassador of Assam tourism, State Tourism Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma came to her defence and said that a section of the Congress legislators are trying to get cheap publicity out of the issue. 

Congress legislators including Nandita Das and Rupjyoti Kurmi recently raised objections during the ongoing session of the Assam legislative assembly to a photograph of the Bollywood star in ‘minimal clothes’ as featured in a calendar of the Assam Tourism Development Corporation (ATDC) and demanded that she be removed as the brand ambassador of Assam tourism. The Congress legislators also showed a copy of the ATDC calendar where Priyanka was seen wearing a frock and not the traditional dress of Assam - Mekhela chador. 

“The government should preserve the respect of the Assamese society. Frock is not an Assamese attire and the calendar pictures were not sober at all. The government should have known how to preserve the prestige of the Assamese society, instead they could have used the traditional mekhela sador. This is the reason we have protested against the calendar,” Kurmi told the portal TIME8. Priyanka Chopra speaks to reporters at the premiere of the film A Kid Like Jake at Eccles Theatre during the Sundance Film Festival. (Arthur Mola/Invision/AP) “A section of Congress legislators in Assam are trying to get cheap publicity out of the issue. 

When we receive felicitation in some stage do we go wearing dhoti, the traditional dress of Assam or wearing pants and shirts? If someone comes to Assam from abroad will he be felicitated after wearing dhoti?,” said Sarma while answering a journalist outside the House on Tuesday. Congress leader and Assam’s Leader of Opposition Debabrata Saikia said that it would have been better if the brand ambassador had worn Assam’s traditional dress during the photo-shoot for the calendar of ATDC. “I think that (wearing an Assamese traditional dress) would have been appropriate for the actor to promote the culture and tradition of Assam,” he said. Saikia, however, said that the government should rather concentrate on improving the tourism infrastructure in Assam rather than spending funds on appointing brand ambassadors. 

 “The tourism infrastructure has been improved in past several years but it needs to improve further and government should concentrate on that,” he added.

Get back Nirav while returning from Abroad, Rahul tells PM.

Mendipathar (IANS): Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday asked him to bring back absconding diamantaire Nirav Modi "when he returns from his foreign trips". "I would like to request this Modi (Prime Minister), on behalf of all of us, to bring back the other (Nirav) Modi when he goes on another of his many foreign trips. 

We will all be very grateful as a nation to get our hard-earned money back," the Congress chief said while launching the second leg of his campaign ahead of the February 27 Meghalaya Assembly elections. Gandhi also drew a comparison between the Prime Minister and Nirav. "... Nirav Modi sold diamonds, which are the stuff he claims dreams are made of. In fact, one can say he sold dreams to many people, including the government which happily slept while (Nirav) Modi ran away with the public's hard-earned money," he said. "A few years ago, another (Prime Minister) Modi also sold dreams to the people of India. 

Dreams of 'achche din', Rs 15 lakh in everyone's bank account, two crore jobs, and so on," the Congress leader said. Gandhi noted that people had reposed faith in Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party ahead of the 2014 Lok Sabha elections because of their grand promises, thinking that Modi would give them jobs. "Farmers thought their hard work would be respected and their produce get a fair price; tribals felt they would also get equal share and their land, traditions, and culture would be protected." 

"But as this government's tenure nears an end," Gandhi said, "it is clear that instead of giving hope, security and economic growth they have dealt us only hopelessness, unemployment, fear, hatred and violence. "And with (liquor baron) Vijay Mallya and Nirav Modi scams we know this is a government that not only cannot remove corruption but is also actively participating in it." 

Appealing to the 18.31 lakh electorate in Meghalaya not to vote for the National People's Party (NPP) headed by Lok Sabha member Conrad Sangma, the Congress chief claimed the NPP is "working to become the B-team of BJP". "Don't fall in the trap of NPP," he said, as he reminded people how the NPP is a coalition partner in the BJP-led government in Manipur.

"They are running a government in Manipur with the BJP, which the BJP formed through ill-gotten money and power. Today, I promise you that we will not allow a repetition of Manipur in Meghalaya. On behalf of the Congress I assure you this," he said. Voicing confidence that the Congress will retain power in Meghalaya, Gandhi said the Congress will unite each and every voice in Meghalaya that calls for justice. 

Praising Chief Minister Mukul Sangma for what he said was ushering in an era of unprecedented growth and prosperity, the Congress chief said: "You have one of the most hardworking Chief Ministers in the country. Everyone can see the tremendous development here. Gone are the days of bandhs, strikes and violent activities."

Indian football team coach, accepts contract extension.

New Delhi (PTI): Englishman Stephen Constantine on Tuesday said he has accepted the contract extension offered to him by the All India Football Federation (AIFF), which will make him the longest serving national coach in the history of the sport here. 

Under Constantine's tutelage, India qualified for the 2019 AFC Asian Cup after crushing Macau 4-1 last October, which stretched their unbeaten record to 12 matches. It became 13 when they played out a 2-2 draw with Myanmar the following month. "After accepting my second contract extension with the All India Football Federation, I will have the longest tenure of any foreign coach in Indian history, with a total of seven years (2002 - 2005; 2015 - 2019)," 

Constantine said. Constantine, however, did not state whether he has been given the salary hike that he had demanded. India were struggling at 173 in the FIFA rankings when Constantine took charge. What followed was a dream run as India broke into the top 100 for the first time in 21 years. "I am of course immensely proud of that, and of our accomplishments in both stints. 

This time round, qualifying for the Asian Cup in 2019, winning the SAFF, and taking India to its highest ranking in modern history, 96 are all great achievements. "I really could not have done this without the support of the AIFF, my staff and, of course, the players." Constantine's contract is due to expire next month. The 55-year-old Briton spoke about the challenging fixtures lined up for the team in the upcoming year. 

"We have — as usual — a very hectic and busy schedule, starting with our last qualifier of the Asian Cup, away to Kyrgyzstan on March 27th. We have the Asian Cup Finals from January 5th to February 1st 2019. National team camps will be as per the FIFA guidelines where applicable,” he added.

Wigan end city's quadruple bid.

Wigan, united Kingdom(AFP): Pep Guardiola's quest to win an unprecedented quadruple with Manchester City came to a stunning and controversial end when they fell to a 1-0 defeat at third-tier Wigan in the fifth round of the FA Cup here. In an uncanny repeat of the 2013 FA Cup final, in which City had a player sent off before losing to a late Wigan winner, Guardiola's side had Fabian Delph dismissed amid stormy scenes before Will Grigg's 79th-minute goal decided the game last night. 

A famous night was marred, however, by a post-match pitch invasion by Wigan supporters which saw a number of them confront City players, with striker Sergio Aguero required to defend himself. Earlier the drama had been provided by Northern Ireland international Grigg who capitalised on an error by Kyle Walker -- who allowed a pass to run through to the Wigan man -- and kept ahead of John Stones before finishing clinically from just inside the area. 

It was only City's second defeat to English opposition since losing an FA Cup semi-final to Arsenal last April while their opponents can now look forward to a quarter-final home tie with Southampton. The pivotal sending-off arrived in first half injury-time when Fabian Delph made a rash challenge on Wigan's Max Power, prompting referee Anthony Taylor to pull a yellow card out of his pocket before changing his mind and producing red. That infuriated City players, who surrounded the referee, and the dispute spilled into the rival technical areas with Sergio Aguero having to be dragged away by Guardiola as he argued furiously with Wigan coaches. 

The scene turned even uglier, with television cameras in the tunnel capturing footage of Guardiola and Wigan manager Paul Cook in a major verbal confrontation and being kept apart by staff. - Wasteful Aguero City might have enjoyed a far more comfortable evening had their record goalscorer Aguero not missed a golden opportunity after just two minutes, heading over Bernardo Silva's pinpoint cross from just six yards. And home keeper Christian Walton needed to be alert a few moments later, diving smartly to parry away a fierce strike from Ilkay Gundogan. 

Guardiola had made six changes for the tie, while still fielding a strong line-up, but two of his fringe players -- full-back Danilo and back-up goalkeeper Claudio Bravo -- were guilty of errors which offered the hosts a glimmer of hope. First Bravo and Danilo dithered in dealing with the ball, almost presenting Gareth Roberts with a chance on the six-yard line. And then Danilo was robbed of the ball by Roberts, the ball breaking for Grigg who raced half the length of the field before shooting into the side-netting. City were enjoying the bulk of possession but, without the rested Kevin De Bruyne and Raheem Sterling, were struggling to create clear chances. 

They came close, from Leroy Sane's 26th-minute corner which Gundogan flicked across the six-yard area, but defender Aymeric Laporte failed to connect with the ball at his feet. When City next threatened, after Stones headed down Delph's cross, Fernandinho's shot rose over by some distance when he looked certain to score. Gundogan and Danilo, twice, also threatened the Wigan goal and Walton saved superbly from an Aguero drive, moments before the explosive dismissal of Delph. Guardiola brought on England right-back Walker as a half-time substitute, moving Danilo over to Delph's vacant left-back spot. Despite their disadvantage, City still enjoyed the majority of possession although, apart from Chey Dunkley blocking a Danilo shot, there was little to concern Walton as the tie approached the 65-minute mark and Guardiola opted to bring De Bruyne into the fray. 

 The Belgian's introduction brought a far greater threat from City, particularly from set-pieces. On 73 minutes, De Bruyne found Aguero at the near-post but his shot was blocked and Danilo maintained the pressure with a low centre across the goalline before Grigg's dramatic intervention. Aguero in clash with Wigan fan Sergio Aguero was involved in a confrontation with a Wigan fan as ugly scenes marred the end of the third-division side's shock FA Cup win over Manchester City on Monday. Fans spilled on to the pitch at DW Stadium as the hosts celebrated their 1-0 fifth-round win against the runaway English Premier League leader. 

Supporters from both clubs were involved in disturbances, while television pictures appeared to show a home supporter and striker Aguero involved in a physical exchange. Aguero appeared to hit the supporter after the fan said something to the player, and Aguero had to be held back by his City teammates. Advertising hoardings were also ripped out and thrown as a pitch invasion by Wigan fans got out of hand while the defeated City players were being escorted off the pitch. Footage also appeared to show objects, including an advertising board, being thrown at police officers by fans in the City end. City manager Pep Guardiola said he was in the changing room and did not see the Aguero incident.

"It's safer when the fans are not there, but sometimes it happens," he said. Wigan counterpart Paul Cook was also in his changing room at the time. "It's not correct (pitch invasions), but I haven't seen these incidents so I'd rather not give an opinion, but players' safety is paramount for everyone."