A significant explosion outside a police station in Himachal Pradesh has triggered a high-level investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The incident, which caused damage but no loss of life, occurred in the Nalagarh area of Solan district.
Blast Details and Immediate Aftermath
The explosion took place at around 9:40 am on Thursday near the boundary wall of the Nalagarh police station. The force of the blast was powerful enough to shatter window panes in several nearby buildings. Structures affected included the Ex-servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) polyclinic and an army canteen. Authorities confirmed that the impact was felt within a radius of 40 to 45 metres.
Fortunately, despite the visible damage, no casualties were reported. Preliminary assessments also indicated that there was no major structural damage to the police station or adjacent buildings.
Multi-Agency Investigation Underway
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu addressed the media in Solan on Saturday, providing crucial updates on the case. He confirmed that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken charge of the probe to determine the cause and perpetrators of the blast.
"The NIA team is investigating the Nalagarh blast," stated CM Sukhu. "Our forensic science laboratory is also examining the site and evidence." He revealed that state police forces are providing full support, with both the Himachal Police and Punjab Police assisting in the investigation.
Focus on Evidence and All Leads
The Chief Minister shared specific details about the site that have been provided to the federal agency. "There was very old scrap material in the area, and we shared this information with the NIA," he said. This detail is considered a significant part of the evidence being scrutinized.
When questioned about claims of responsibility, particularly from the banned militant group Babbar Khalsa, CM Sukhu maintained a cautious stance. He emphasized that all possible leads, including the reports about the scrap material, have been handed over to the NIA. The Chief Minister made it clear that no conclusions will be drawn until a thorough investigation is complete.
The involvement of the NIA points to the serious nature of the incident, as the agency typically handles cases related to terrorism and national security. The investigation continues as forensic experts and NIA officials work to piece together the sequence of events.
