L-G, Omar express grief over Nowgam blast

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and leaders from various political parties on Saturday expressed deep sorrow and grief over the massive explosion that took place inside Srinagar’s Nowgam police station, killing nine people and injuring 32 others.

L-G Sinha said he was deeply anguished by the loss of precious lives. “My condolences to the bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured,” he said. Stating that the government stands in solidarity with the families, friends, and loved ones of the departed, Sinha added, “All possible assistance is being provided to those affected. I have ordered a probe to ascertain the cause of the accidental explosion.”

A statement issued by the Chief Minister’s Office said Omar Abdullah extended his heartfelt condolences to “the bereaved families, including those of the police officers, forensic science lab personnel, revenue department officials, and other associated team members.” Abdullah assured that the government stands firmly with the families who lost their loved ones and will provide every possible support. He has also directed Health Minister Sakina Itoo to ensure the best possible treatment for the injured and said the government will compensate for damage caused to nearby structures by the accidental blast.

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti, while expressing anguish, said the incident “lays bare the risks and difficult conditions under which our police personnel serve to keep the rest of us safe.” She extended her condolences and prayed for strength and a swift recovery for the injured.

Former union minister Ghulam Nabi Azad said he was “deeply pained” by the tragic blast. “My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the swift recovery of the injured,” he said.

Peoples Conference chief and Handwara MLA Sajad Lone described the incident as “heartbreaking.” “Heartfelt condolences to families of those who lost their lives. In this distressing moment, may they find the courage to bear this loss,” he said. “We mourn the loss of dedicated police, forensic, and civil personnel, and extend our deepest condolences to their families, friends, and the entire Kashmir community.”

Sheikh Ashiq, leader of jailed MP Engineer Rashid’s Awami Ittehad Party, also mourned the loss of lives and called “for a thorough and transparent investigation into how such a tragedy occurred.” He stressed that “proper accountability should be ensured and safety protocols strengthened so that such a calamity never happens again.”

J&K govt announces Rs 10 lakh ex gratia for kin of deceased

Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir government on Saturday announced an ex gratia of Rs 10 lakh for the family of each of the deceased in the accidental blast in Nowgam police station. The compensation will be provided from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund.

Those severely injured will get Rs 1 lakh each, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on his official X account.

"As a mark of solidarity and immediate succour, the government has announced ex gratia relief from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund at Rs 10 lakh for each deceased and Rs 1 lakh for those severely injured," he said.