Srinagar Naugaon Blast: 9 Killed as Probe Explores Accident vs Terror Strike at Police Station

A massive explosion at the Naugaon police station in Srinagar has left nine people dead and around 30 injured, reducing the entire structure to rubble and triggering one of the most high-stakes investigations in recent months. The blast occurred while officers were handling nearly 350 kilos of seized ammonium nitrate connected to an ongoing probe into an interstate terror module.

Officials say two possibilities are being examined with equal urgency. The first is an accidental detonation caused during the movement or processing of the highly sensitive chemicals. Ammonium nitrate, while a common industrial compound, can become explosive if mishandled, contaminated or exposed to extreme heat. However, experts point out that the compound does not explode on its own and requires an ignition source — raising questions about whether protocol was followed inside the station.

The second possibility is far more alarming: a deliberate terror attack. Investigators are probing whether an improvised explosive device (IED) hidden in a seized vehicle or planted inside the police premises may have triggered the blast. This angle gained traction after the Jaish-e-Mohammed–linked outfit, the People’s Anti-Fascist Front (PAFF), issued a claim of responsibility. Authorities are currently verifying the authenticity of this claim, noting that several terror groups often claim incidents they are not involved in.

An analyst featured in the report underscored the complexity of the case, stating that “ammonium nitrate cannot trigger itself unless something is done inside the police station.” This has placed renewed focus on whether there was an insider lapse, a deliberate act, or a devastating chain reaction caused by improper handling of the seized materials.

Rescue teams worked through the debris through the night, pulling out survivors and the bodies of officers who were on duty when the explosion occurred. Forensic teams from multiple agencies have been deployed to the site to determine whether any explosive residue, detonator fragments or external devices contributed to the blast.

As the investigation continues, authorities remain cautious but alert. The outcome will determine whether this was a tragic accident — or a deadly new chapter in the terror landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.