Latest news with #Parra
The Hindu
a day ago
- Politics
- The Hindu
Opposition criticises Jammu and Kashmir government for ‘dragging its feet' on quota revamp
The Jammu and Kashmir Government is dragging its feet on finalising a report on the rationalisation of reservation categories in the Union Territory (UT), which is being studied by a Cabinet sub-committee. The committee, in turn, submitted it to the Law Department for legal vetting months ago, and it has been bogged down since. Several opposition parties have expressed dismay and demanded that the Cabinet report be made public. J&K's reservation quota was revised under Central rule after new categories like Paharis, Paddari Tribe, Koli, and Gadda Brahmin, etc., were included in 2024. The open merit category was reduced significantly, to less than 40%. The ruling National Conference (NC), which promised to rationalise the quota, constituted a Cabinet Sub Committee (CSC), which was to file its report in six months. However, no final decision was taken on the rationalisation and no deadline was set for the Law Department, evoking sharp reactions from Opposition parties and open merit aspirants. 'Despite the six-month deadline, the Cabinet has neither offered clarity nor transparency on the report, only vague assertions and now a reported referral to the Law Department. This ambiguity is not just disappointing but also damaging,' Engineer Ehtisham Khan, a student rights activist, told The Hindu. Aspirants in the dark He accused the NC Government of 'keeping the open merit aspirants in the dark yet again.' Opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader and MLA Waheed-ur-Rehmaan Parra said the Cabinet move has left 'thousands of students heartbroken and disillusioned.' 'This is a deliberate denial of justice. These students have already endured violence, lockdowns, and lost opportunities. Now, as they seek fair representation and rationalised reservation, the government is pushing them further to the margins,' Mr. Parra said. He said the NC Government has the power to strike down the BJP-imposed policy with a single administrative order. NC insincere 'But the party that promised to reverse the BJP's damage is now complicit in continuing it. If the Kashmiri youth are not offered hope, it will only empower subversive elements, further destabilising a generation and their future. Rationalisation of reservation and proportional representation represents the only fair path forward, and it must be implemented without further delay,' Mr. Parra said. He demanded that the government make the report public. J&K Peoples Conference chief and MLA Sajad Lone accused the Abdullah Government of being 'clueless on reservations.' 'It has no intention of doing anything. Now, coming to this draft proposal. To the best of my knowledge, anything sent to the Cabinet should be vetted by the Law Department. It is not the other way around. It looks like another round of time-wasting tactics,' Mr. Lone said. J&K Apni Party (JKAP) president Altaf Bukhari asked the government to set a timeline for addressing the reservation issue. 'Whether the government focus is on revising the CSC report or obtaining legal vetting, it is essential that a clear and fixed timeline be established,' Mr. Bukhari said. He called for 'a judicious reservation policy.' 'One thing is clear beyond a doubt that the current reservation policy is highly flawed and injudicious. There is broad consensus that we require a more judicious reservation policy to protect merit,' Mr. Bukhari said.
Associated Press
3 days ago
- Sport
- Associated Press
Gerardo Parra and Tania Victoria Marín: A Team On and Off the Field
Some chapters don't end—they simply transform. For Gerardo Parra, life after his professional baseball career wasn't a farewell to the sport but rather a fresh start. Today, as part of the Washington Nationals coaching staff, his relationship with baseball has deepened, offering a new perspective. At his side is his wife, Tania Victoria Marín, who not only supports him but actively participates in the team's environment, blending professional life, community involvement, and mutual growth. Based in the heart of the U.S. capital, Parra and Marín are navigating a different yet equally intense phase compared to his athletic stardom. After a fourteen-year career as a professional player, Parra has reinvented himself as a coach, joining the Nationals' technical staff. While his name still excites fans—especially because of his unforgettable 'Baby Shark' anthem—today he focuses on roles requiring a more analytical, tactical, and strategic approach. 'The experience has been excellent. Every day I learn more—not just on-field responsibilities but areas previously unfamiliar to me, like technological tools and behind-the-scenes management. This has significantly boosted my personal growth post-retirement,' Parra reflects calmly, aware he's building this new phase on solid foundations. His coaching role extends beyond technical responsibilities, fostering deeper connections with players. 'I've gotten to know them better, understanding their dedication and daily commitment. That's taught me a lot. My goal is helping each player achieve their peak physical and mental condition. We aim to reach the World Series, and it all begins with individual and collective effort,' he adds. Beyond baseball, Parra clearly views this period as personal preparation, aspiring confidently yet humbly to eventually become a manager. 'I trust that, with time and God's guidance, the opportunity will come. Right now, I'm still learning step-by-step, with humility and determination.' He isn't walking this path alone. Tania Victoria Marín has also carved out a meaningful role within the Nationals' community. Her participation, although less visible, is just as significant. She accompanies her husband not merely as a partner but as an active contributor to the team's broader community engagement. 'I participate in the organization's social and community events, getting involved in activities beyond the game itself, but equally vital in connecting the team to its surroundings,' explains Tania, whose supportive role has become deeply meaningful. Her active presence at team events, gatherings, and community outreach has strengthened the human relationships underpinning the club's structure. In an environment where pressure and competition often dominate, her role provides empathy, emotional support, and balance, complementing the strictly athletic dynamic. Their interaction is natural, effortless. This isn't a couple simply following a script; rather, it's two people genuinely understanding the value of mutual support, even within the demanding context of Major League Baseball. What may appear as merely 'being there' for others actually represents a joint construction of trust, balance, and purpose. 'The most valuable aspect of this experience is that we are living it together. Each of us plays our own role, yet we share the same vision. Gerardo dedicates himself intensely to coaching, while I contribute through social and community engagement. That strengthens us as a team and as partners,' reflects Tania. The story of Gerardo and Tania in Washington, D.C., intertwines professional transition, personal growth, and a clear sense of community. There are no grandiose statements or clichés—just consistency, presence, and commitment. In a sports world often dominated by statistics rather than individuals, they provide a distinctly human narrative. As the Nationals fight game by game to advance through the season, this couple continues building something bigger than just a sports career. They are creating a legacy of teamwork, both on and off the field, with their eyes firmly set on the present—and the future. Media Contact Company Name: WE LOVE MEDIA Email: Send Email State: FL Country: United States Website: Source: Tree Connection
United News of India
6 days ago
- Politics
- United News of India
NIA opposes bail relaxation for PDP's Waheed Para
Srinagar, June 14 (UNI) The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has strongly opposed a plea filed by MLA and People's Democratic Party (PDP) leader Waheed Para seeking relaxation of his bail conditions. In a detailed objection submitted to the Special NIA Court in Jammu, the anti-terror agency said Para's plea is not maintainable and needs to be dismissed as 'intention of the applicant/ accused is to flee from the clutches of law.' PDP's Para is leader of the Legislature Party in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly. Parra had been jailed for around 19 months under sections of Unlawful Activities Prevention Act in 2020 and was released on bail by the J&K High Court in 2021. While granting bail, Para was directed not to leave the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir without the prior written permission of the court during the period of bail. Para, who represents the Pulwama assembly segment, was one of three legislators from the party who won the elections last year. The MLA had pleaded before the court that he may be allowed to travel to any part of the country citing his constitutional obligation as a legislator. 'Trial in the instant case is being conducted expeditiously on regular basis. There is a strong apprehension that the applicant/ accused would misuse the liberty and may not come back to face the proceedings in relation to chargesheet that has already been filed,' the NIA said in its objections. The NIA said that the investigations have revealed that the accused Parra 'entered into the conspiracy with other co-accused for raising funds to procure arms and ammunition for terrorists of the banned terrorist organisation Hizb-ulMujahideen and Lashkar-e-Taiba, operating in Kashmir valley.' 'Besides, Waheed Para extended financial support to the separatist leaders for furtherance of secessionist activities,' the anti terror body told the Court. 'The said bail conditions in no way prevents the accused from discharging his constitutional duties as an elected MLA,' NIA said 'In the event that his presence is specifically required outside the Union Territory of J&K in furtherance of any constitutional obligation, the court may consider such requests on a case-to-case basis'. The NIA said that based on the evidence that came on record, charges in the court have been framed under section 120B of the IPC, sections 17, 18, 39 & 40 of the UA(P)Act in December 2022. The NIA, while praying for dismissal of Parra's application, said that he is 'not a law abiding person and is involved in serious offences related to national security'. The Special NIA Court is yet to pronounce its order on the application.
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Foo Fighters, Chappell Roan & Linkin Park to Headline Corona Capital 2025
Foo Fighters, Chappell Roan and Linkin Park will headline the 15th edition of the Corona Capital festival, which will also mark the highly anticipated return of Deftones to Mexican stages after nearly a decade, promoter OCESA announced on Tuesday (June 3). The exciting lineup for the annual rock festival — scheduled to take place from Nov. 14 to Nov. 16 at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City — also includes Queens of the Stone Age, Franz Ferdinand, Garbage, Vampire Weekend, Alabama Shakes and Weezer. More from Billboard Jessie J Reveals 'Early Breast Cancer' Diagnosis: 'Cancer Sucks in Any Form' Big Thief Announce New Album, 'Double Infinity' Neil Young Invites Donald Trump to Summer Tour 'If There Is Not Martial Law by Then' 'Corona Capital is not just a festival — it's a bridge between cultures, emotions, and generations,' Memo Parra, director of international events at OCESA, tells Billboard Español. 'Since 2010, it has evolved into one of the most important festivals in the world, attracting thousands of fans from every corner of the globe to Mexico.' Parra emphasized that, with an attendance of 255,000 people per edition and a team of over 5,000 making it possible, Corona Capital is 'living proof of the power of music to bring us together.' Close to 70 artists and bands make up the 2025 lineup, including Aurora, Damiano David, James, Of Monsters and Men, AFI, Jerry Cantrell, Jehnny Beth, TV On The Radio, 4 Non Blondes, Circa Waves, Mogwai, Shermanology, Jordan Rakei, Kadavar and The Struts, among others. But the participation of Deftones will undoubtedly be one of the standout moments. The last time the Sacramento, California-based rock band performed in Mexico City was in 2014. In an interview with Billboard Español published in February, vocalist Chino Moreno said that they were in talks for what could be their big return to the country. Another highly anticipated act is Queens of the Stone Age, who had to cancel its 2024 shows — including one at the Corona Capital festival — due to health issues affecting singer and guitarist Josh Homme. 'What truly sets Corona Capital apart is its musical curation: a carefully crafted selection that has made music the backbone of the festival,' Parra adds, highlighting that people come not only to see their favorite artists, but also to 'discover new sounds and be surprised.' Corona Capital will take place in the context of the centennial celebration of the beer Corona, the festival's sponsor. Leading up to the event in November, celebrations will be held in several cities across the country under the name Corona Capital Sessions. The presale for Banamex cardholders will take place on Friday (June 6), with the general sale beginning the following day. In its 15 years of existence, Corona Capital has solidified itself as the most important international music festival in Mexico, and one of the few in Latin America featuring major English-speaking bands. In the past, it has hosted renowned acts such as Paul McCartney, Jack White, The Cure, Muse, Blur, Nine Inch Nails, Portishead, Interpol, Billie Eilish, Pixies and Richard Ashcroft. 'More than 500 international artists have taken the stage, performing for a curious, open-minded, and passionate crowd that has helped us build a space where inclusion, social impact, and Mexican cultural traditions are celebrated and shared with the world,' Parra says. Check out the lineup for Corona Capital 2025 below: Best of Billboard Chart Rewind: In 1989, New Kids on the Block Were 'Hangin' Tough' at No. 1 Janet Jackson's Biggest Billboard Hot 100 Hits H.E.R. & Chris Brown 'Come Through' to No. 1 on Adult R&B Airplay Chart
Yahoo
03-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
4 L.A. County men arrested for plotting to distribute 2,000 pounds of drugs, feds allege
Four Los Angeles County men have been arrested on suspicion of running a drug trafficking operation and conspiring to distribute more than 2,000 pounds of drugs and hundreds of thousands of counterfeit pills, according to authorities. The men allegedly kept the drugs inside a safe house on Wilmington Avenue in Compton, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration's Los Angeles Field Division said in a statement. Last month, federal agents seized 1,730 pounds of methamphetamine, 238 pounds of cocaine, 257 pounds of powdered fentanyl and about 360,000 counterfeit fentanyl pills from the home. Authorities also took possession of 13 firearms and seven vehicles. Read more: One of the dark web's largest drug-dealing networks was run by four L.A. County men, feds allege Authorities believe the men made about $1.6 million in drug proceeds since 2023. To hide their activities from law enforcement, the men used coded language to communicate via FaceTime and Snapchat, according to the DEA. In May 2023, when authorities say the drug distribution operation began, the men allegedly made $3,250 selling meth to a customer at a restaurant in Paramount, according to court records. A drug sale the next month brought in $6,500, court records say. The four men were arrested on Wednesday. Authorities identified them as Jesse 'Gordo' Lopez-Martinez, 27, of Long Beach; Carlos 'Losy' Mendoza Jr., 32, of Compton; Hector Merced Parra Jr., 25, of South Gate; and Juan 'Panchito' Francisco Felix Salazar, 28, of Whittier. Read more: Authorities tout massive 50-pound fentanyl seizure in L.A.: 'Our biggest bust yet' Lopez-Martinez faces three counts of possession of drugs with the intent to distribute. Parra and Salazar were each charged with one count for possession of drugs with the intent to distribute. Mendoza faces four counts: two for possession of drugs with intent to distribute, one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. He was previously convicted in L.A. in 2012 for felony drug transportation, authorities say. Parra and Salazar have been released on bond, while Lopez-Martinez and Mendoza remain in custody. All four men have pleaded not guilty. According to the DEA, Mendoza allegedly stored and safeguarded the drugs at the Compton residence while Lopez-Martinez allegedly arranged deliveries. Lopez-Martinez and Mendoza allegedly transported meth, and prosecutors say Salazar and Parra helped Lopez-Martinez supply fentanyl to customers. Parra also received fentanyl on consignment from Salazar for further distribution, authorities allege. Read more: Hollywood woman convicted of running delivery service dubbed 'Uber, but for drugs' 'The DEA will show zero tolerance for drug criminals, who continue to poison and devastate our communities,' Matthew Allen, special agent in charge of the L.A. Field Division, said in a statement. 'We're going to find you, shut down your activities, and ensure you face the full force of the law.' If convicted as charged, the four men could each face a 10-year mandatory minimum prison sentence and a maximum life sentence, according to the DEA. The investigation was conducted in collaboration with the Vernon Police Department, the Baldwin Park Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Homeland Security Investigations. Trial is scheduled to begin on July 21. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
