‘No Terrorist Angle in Nowgam Police Station Blast,’ Says J&K Governor Manoj Sinha

Srinagar | November 16, 2025

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has ruled out any terrorist involvement in the Nowgam Police Station blast, stating that the preliminary assessment points towards an accidental explosion. His clarification came a day after the incident triggered concern across Srinagar and prompted immediate inquiries into the cause of the blast.

Officials said the explosion occurred during sample-collection work at the Nowgam Police Station, where forensic teams were handling seized materials linked to an ongoing investigation. While the blast created panic in the surrounding area, authorities maintained that there was no threat to public safety and that the situation was swiftly brought under control.

Governor Confirms Accidental Nature of the Blast

Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Lieutenant Governor Sinha said the administration had reviewed the initial reports and found no terrorist angle in the Nowgam Police Station blast. He emphasised that early inputs clearly pointed to an internal mishap rather than an act of sabotage.

The Governor said he had been briefed by top security officials shortly after the incident. Their assessment showed that the explosion likely occurred during the handling of sensitive materials by forensic teams. Sinha added that a formal probe had already been ordered to determine the exact sequence of events and identify any lapses that may have contributed to the accident.

Police sources said the blast took place inside a designated workspace where evidence linked to previous operations was being examined. While authorities have not disclosed the nature of the samples involved, they confirmed that the materials were part of routine crime-scene evaluation procedures.

The immediate response from the police and fire services helped contain the situation. No major injuries were reported, though a few personnel present at the site experienced minor impacts due to the sudden explosion. Officials said they have been provided medical attention and are in stable condition.

Local Concerns and Swift Official Response

The loud explosion caused alarm among residents living near the Nowgam area. Many said they initially feared a militant attack, given the region’s past incidents. However, the police quickly issued a public statement to reassure the community that the Nowgam Police Station blast was not linked to terrorism.

Security personnel also increased patrolling in the vicinity for a brief period to maintain public order. According to officers familiar with the matter, this was a precautionary step aimed at preventing misinformation and ensuring transparency in the early hours of the investigation.

Local residents later expressed relief after hearing the Governor’s statement, noting that clear communication helped prevent unnecessary panic. Several citizens praised the rapid response of emergency teams and the timely updates shared by the administration.

Probe Ordered to Examine Handling Protocols

A detailed inquiry has now been initiated to examine safety protocols, the condition of seized materials, and the procedures followed by forensic teams at the time of the Nowgam Police Station blast. Officials said the probe committee would assess whether the materials were stored appropriately and if standard operating procedures were fully complied with.

Experts note that accidental blasts involving unstable or reactive materials are not uncommon in police facilities where seized explosives, chemicals, or outdated devices are examined. Even small errors or unexpected reactions can trigger an explosion, especially during sample-collection or evidence-testing work.

The inquiry is expected to review the type of evidence being handled, the equipment used, and the training provided to personnel involved in forensic operations. Authorities said the final report would help strengthen safety measures and minimise the risk of similar incidents in the future.

Security analysts believe that the Governor’s reassurance and the quick administrative response have helped maintain calm in the region. They also noted that clear communication plays a crucial role in preventing the spread of rumours, especially in sensitive areas like Srinagar.

As the investigation continues, officials have assured residents that regular updates will be shared based on verified information. For now, early findings strongly indicate that the Nowgam Police Station blast was accidental, contained, and posed no wider security threat.

Neutral and Factual Conclusion

The incident at Nowgam has brought renewed attention to the importance of stringent safety procedures during forensic examinations. With the probe underway, authorities aim to identify the precise cause of the explosion and reinforce preventive measures across police facilities. For now, the administration remains confident that the Nowgam Police Station blast was an internal mishap, not an act of terror, and that the situation in Srinagar remains stable and under control.