Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has categorically stated that Friday night's devastating explosion at Nowgam police station was an unfortunate accident with no links to terrorism or external interference. The blast resulted in nine fatalities and left thirty-two individuals injured during evidence sampling procedures.
Official Statement Rules Out Terror Angle
While addressing a religious gathering in Jammu on Sunday, Lt Governor Sinha provided crucial clarity about the tragic incident. "The Nowgam police station incident was only an unfortunate accident and there was no terror conspiracy or outside interference behind it," declared Sinha during his speech at the 'Nagar Kirtan' event organized to commemorate the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur.
The senior administrator confirmed that a formal magisterial inquiry has been initiated to investigate the circumstances surrounding the explosion. "As a magisterial inquiry is mandatory in such incidents, I have ordered one into it in accordance with the law," he stated, emphasizing the administration's commitment to procedural transparency.
Blast During Evidence Sampling Process
The explosion occurred on Friday night while police authorities were conducting sampling of explosive materials that had been seized during operations against a pan-Indian "white collar" terror module. Official sources confirmed the sampling process had been ongoing at the police station for two days prior to the incident.
According to investigative reports, the seized materials were connected to a terror module allegedly involved in the recent car blast near Delhi's Red Fort on November 10. The evidence collection was part of the broader investigation into this network's activities across the country.
Recognition for Police Anti-Terror Efforts
Despite the tragic accident, Lt Governor Sinha praised the Jammu and Kashmir Police for their successful efforts in dismantling the sophisticated terror network. He specifically commended the force for "thwarting many terrorist incidents in the country" through their operations against the white-collar terror module.
The Lieutenant Governor's statements sought to balance the acknowledgment of the procedural tragedy with recognition of the police force's counter-terrorism achievements. His comments highlighted both the accidental nature of the Nowgam incident and the ongoing security challenges facing the region.
During the same public appearance, Sinha also paid tribute to Guru Tegh Bahadur, noting the significant contributions and sacrifices made by Sikh Gurus in preserving India's cultural and spiritual heritage. He urged citizens to "stand firm in our determination to build a new India of our dreams" while acknowledging the nation's resilience through centuries of challenges.
