MONTREAL: Quebec's newly elected premier was whisked off the stage during her victory speech for security reasons.

The incident occurred Tuesday night as Pauline Marois, leader of the separatist Parti Quebecois, was declaring victory in the French-speaking province's election.

Police were not immediately able to provide details but party organizers informed the crowd that there had been an explosive noise and they needed to clear the auditorium. Police say one man was arrested and two people were injured. TV reports say a fire behind the building was put out.

Marois returned to the stage after the incident and asked the crowd to peacefully disperse.

The separatist party won the election, but another referendum to break away from Canada isn't expected any time soon after the Parti Quebecois failed to win a majority of legislative seats.