Srinagar, Nov 15, KNT: The Ministry of Home Affairs on Saturday clarified that the blast inside Police Station Nowgam was purely accidental and urged the public to avoid any kind of speculation regarding the incident. MHA Official made the statement during a press conference held in the aftermath of the tragedy.
According to the Ministry, the explosion occurred when a forensic team was inspecting a large quantity of explosive material that had been seized recently from a module working in progression. The material, identified as ammonium nitrate and related components, detonated unexpectedly during the inspection, killing nine people on the spot and injuring thirty-two others.
Among those present inside the police station were personnel from the Forensic Science Laboratory, police officials, and members of the Revenue Department who had accompanied the team as part of the verification and assessment process. Several of them were caught directly in the blast, leading to high casualties and widespread structural destruction.
The MHA said the explosion was so powerful that surrounding residential houses also suffered extensive damage.
The Ministry reiterated that the incident had noother angle and was not linked to any attack. “This was an accidental blast during the inspection of seized material. Speculative statements must be avoided,” the senior official said at the briefing, adding that a technical investigation is underway to ascertain what triggered the sudden detonation.
Authorities have begun detailed documentation of the damage inside the police station, where several rooms, inspection sections, and storage areas have been completely wrecked. A high-level probe team has been assigned to review safety protocols and handling procedures for seized explosives to prevent any such recurrence. [KNT]
