Karnataka Police rule out crime angle, say chemical reaction triggered blast in Bidar village

The incident had initially triggered panic in Molakera village, prompting District In-Charge Minister Eshwar B Khandre to order a detailed inquiry. He had directed the district administration to ensure immediate medical care for the injured and to bear all treatment-related expenses.

Police teams, along with forensic and technical experts, visited the spot and secured the area. A Scene of Crime Officer (SOCO) team collected samples from the site for analysis.

Pradeep Gunti, Superintendent of Police, Bidar, told The Indian Express that a similar minor explosion had occurred at the same household about 10 months ago. “In both instances, we have come to the conclusion that the blast was caused by a chemical reaction,” he said.

According to the police, paint residue and chemical thinners had been stored in the house for several years, and the occupant was reportedly unaware how highly combustible the substances were. Investigators believe the explosion occurred when the containers were being moved out during cleaning, triggering the reaction.

The SP said further investigation is underway, and all angles are being examined, but added that there is no evidence so far to suggest a deliberate blast.