Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has categorically ruled out any terrorist involvement in the devastating blast at Nowgam Police Station in Srinagar, which killed nine people and left 32 others injured. Calling the incident an “accident” that occurred during sample-collection work, the LG stated that preliminary findings point to an inadvertent explosion rather than any orchestrated attack by militant groups.

The blast, which took place late Friday night, caused extensive destruction within the police station premises and damaged nearby structures. Despite the scale of the tragedy, officials at the highest levels of the Union Territory administration have emphasised that there is no evidence linking the incident to terrorism.

LG Manoj Sinha: No Terrorist Angle, Inquiry Ordered

Addressing reporters on Sunday, LG Manoj Sinha said that early assessments indicate the explosion occurred during a routine forensic procedure.

“There is no terrorist angle in the Nowgam incident. Samples were being taken when this accident happened. I have ordered an inquiry into the matter,” the LG said, underscoring the need for clarity and transparency.

He assured that a probe has been initiated to determine the exact sequence of events and identify lapses, if any, that may have led to the inadvertent detonation of explosive material.

Investigation Underway; Area Sealed Off

Police sources confirmed that the area surrounding the Nowgam Police Station has been sealed by the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) teams and security forces. Teams from various agencies have been deployed for on-site examination, including forensic experts who are working to reconstruct the circumstances leading up to the explosion.

The injured personnel were immediately shifted to Shri Maharaja Hari Singh Hospital (SMHS) in Srinagar, where they continue to receive treatment. Hospital authorities have been instructed to ensure the highest level of medical care.

DGP Nalin Prabhat Urges Against Speculation

Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat echoed the LG’s assessment, stating that preliminary findings strongly indicate that the explosion was accidental.

“Any speculation about the incident is unnecessary,” the DGP said on Saturday. “The initial investigation points to an inadvertent blast during a mandated forensic procedure.”

The DGP also released details about the deceased, confirming that the nine individuals who lost their lives included:

• One officer from the State Investigation Agency (SIA)
• Three FSL personnel
• Two crime-scene photographers
• Two revenue officials assisting the Magistrate’s team
• One tailor working with the operation

Their deaths underscore the grave risks faced by officers performing high-stakes, technical tasks involving explosive materials.

Political Reactions: Calls for Support and Independent Probe

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of life and assured comprehensive support to the families of the deceased. In an official statement, the CM’s office confirmed that Education and Health Minister Sakina Itoo has been directed to oversee the treatment of the injured and ensure that compensation is provided for damaged buildings.

National Conference president Farooq Abdullah also responded to the tragedy, calling for a thorough and independent investigation. He suggested that operational lapses in the initial handling of the explosive may have contributed to the accident.

“Such mistakes can lead to devastating consequences,” he said, urging the administration to ensure accountability and prevent future incidents of this nature.

Context: A Sensitive Region on Edge

The Nowgam blast unfolded amid ongoing tensions in the region following a series of security-related incidents. However, officials have been firm in clarifying that this particular explosion bears no signs of terrorist coordination.

The incident has nevertheless reignited conversations around safety protocols within police and forensic departments—especially when handling explosives, seized materials, or evidence from active investigations.

Moving Forward

As investigations continue, authorities are expected to focus on:

• Assessing standard operating procedures (SOPs) followed during the forensic examination
• Evaluating whether any procedural lapses occurred
• Identifying accountability within the chain of command
• Implementing measures to avoid similar accidents in the future

The tragedy has left the region grieving the loss of nine dedicated professionals who died while performing essential and dangerous work. It has also raised important questions about training, safety oversight, and the handling of volatile materials within police stations.

With the inquiry now underway, the administration is under public and political pressure to ensure that the findings are transparent, the families of the victims are compensated, and safeguards are strengthened to prevent such a tragedy from recurring.