Web Desk: A powerful explosion struck the vicinity of the Nowgam police station in Srinagar resulting from an accident on Friday night, rattling several neighbourhoods across Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Witnesses reported a large number of ambulances rushing toward the area moments after the explosion, which was loud enough to be heard in Pulwama and Awantipora. At least eight people dead and 13 others succumbed to injuries.
Linked to Recent Terror Module Investigation
Indian Media and Social Media links the explosion to intensified police operations following the recent dismantling of what they described as a sophisticated Jaish-e-Mohammed module. While in reality there is no clear evidence of a terror attack rather it was an experiment gone wrong, the accident occured because of a testing of ammonium nitrate that was mishandled. The case quickly widened, prompting a series of arrests, including several medical professionals accused of aiding the network.
Indian Media could not Label it as Terror Attack
Political commentators in Pakistan argue that Indian media outlets avoided describing the recent Srinagar incident as a militant attack because doing so could trigger political pressure at home. If broadcasters labelled it terrorism, the opposition Congress Party would likely urge the government to take military action against Pakistan.
Moreover, these commentators asserted that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) remains cautious after India lost several aircraft during past cross-border tensions, and therefore fears that any new confrontation could escalate further. However, Indian officials have not responded to these claims, and independent verification of the allegations was not immediately available.
Authorities Continue to Assess Damage
Security agencies have cordoned off surrounding roads as bomb disposal teams examine the scene. Meanwhile, officials cautioned that the situation remained fluid, adding that findings from the initial investigation would determine whether the attack was retaliatory. Further information is expected as the inquiry progresses.