Nowgam Police Station Blast: FSL Seals Site as Investigation Intensifies

Authorities have sealed the area around Nowgam Police Station in Srinagar as forensic teams and security forces continue their investigation into the blast that killed nine people and injured 32 others, officials said on Sunday.

Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) experts and security personnel are carrying out detailed on-site examinations to gather evidence.

The explosion, which occurred late Friday inside the police station, caused significant damage to the building. The injured were taken to Shri Maharaja Hari Singh (SMHS) Hospital in Srinagar for treatment.

Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat said on Saturday that early findings indicate the blast was accidental and took place during a mandated forensic procedure. He urged people to avoid unnecessary speculation.

According to the DGP, the victims included one officer from the State Investigation Agency (SIA), three FSL personnel, two crime-scene photographers, two revenue officials assisting a Magistrate’s team, and a tailor involved in the operation.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah assured full support for the families of those killed in the incident. He has instructed Education and Health Minister Sakina Itoo to ensure the best possible treatment for the injured and pledged compensation for damaged structures, according to a statement from the Chief Minister’s office.

National Conference president Farooq Abdullah has called for a thorough and independent probe, suggesting that lapses in the initial handling of the explosive may have played a role in the tragedy.