SHIMLA: A 16-member team from the National Bomb Data Centre (NBDC) of the National Security Guards (NSG) conducted an inspection of the blast site in the Middle Bazaar and The Mall Road in the capital City Today.
The primary objective of the investigation was to rule out any possible terrorist involvement in the incident, which had caused widespread panic in the city center.
The explosion's impact was so severe that it shattered windows and structures along The Mall Road, from the ground level up to the top storey.
Following the tragic event, the local police registered FIR No. 128/2023 at Police Station, Sadar, Shimla, invoking sections 336, 337, and 304A of the Indian Penal Code. Subsequently, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was constituted to delve into the matter.
The NBDC team, responding to a request from the Director General of Police, Himachal Pradesh, Sanjay Kunda, arrived at the scene after being deputed by the Additional Secretary (CTCR) of the Ministry of Home Affairs in New Delhi. Comprising 14 men and 2 officers, the NBDC team meticulously inspected the blast site today and gathered crucial evidence related to the incident. They also engaged with the injured individuals currently receiving treatment in the hospital.
To gain a comprehensive understanding of the situation, the NBDC team consulted with Dr. Rajesh Kumar of SFSL, who had initially examined the spot on the day of the blast.
The team also reviewed the evidence collected by the SIT as part of their investigation.
The National Bomb Data Centre (NBDC), established in 1988, serves as the apex national agency for Post Blast Investigation (PBI) and operates under the jurisdiction of the National Security Guards (NSG). Over the years, the NBDC has diligently documented and collated all blast-related incidents in the country.
The victim of the tragic blast was identified as Raju, the proprietor of New Plaza joint in the Middle Bazaar.
He lost his life when debris from the explosion fell upon him while he was passing by Himachal Rasoi. The powerful impact of the cylinder blast caused tremors that affected several shops on The Mall.
Notably, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has called for the investigation to be conducted by the top investigating agency to ensure a thorough and impartial examination of the incident.
Former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur also visited the site earlier and demanded a comprehensive inquiry into the matter.
PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh, Shimla MLA Harish Janartha, have visited the blast site to show solidarity with the affected families.
This incident has raised concerns among residents, as a similar cylinder blast had previously destroyed the Attic of the New OPD complex at IGMC Shimla a few months ago.
