Residents across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) experienced strong earthquake tremors on Saturday evening, prompting many people to rush out of homes, offices and high-rise buildings as a precaution.

The tremors, felt in several parts of Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad and adjoining areas, caused panic among residents, although there were no immediate reports of casualties or major damage. Witnesses said the shaking lasted for several seconds, leading many to evacuate buildings.

Tremors linked to powerful earthquake in Afghanistan

According to initial information, the tremors in northern India were triggered by a strong earthquake that struck the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan. The quake measured around 6.2 on the Richter scale and occurred at a considerable depth, allowing the tremors to be felt across a wide geographical area, including parts of north India and Kashmir.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation. No immediate reports of injuries or significant structural damage have emerged from Delhi-NCR so far. Officials have advised people to remain calm and follow safety protocols in the event of aftershocks.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray were seen travelling on the same commercial flight from Mumbai to Nagpur, triggering fresh political discussions in the state.

The two leaders, who have remained political rivals in recent years, reportedly exchanged greetings and briefly interacted during the journey. Reacting to the unexpected encounter, Fadnavis remarked that the meeting of the leaders had become the “biggest news of the day”.

Thackeray was accompanied by his son and MLA Aaditya Thackeray, Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut and other senior leaders of the Shiv Sena (UBT). The flight came at a time when Maharashtra politics has witnessed significant developments, including recent defections from the Thackeray-led party.

The shared journey quickly sparked speculation in political circles. However, leaders from the ruling alliance played down the development, describing it as a routine interaction between political opponents rather than an indication of any new political understanding.

While the brief interaction generated considerable attention, no political discussions or meetings beyond customary greetings were officially reported.

Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) international president Alok Kumar has demanded stringent action against those responsible in the alleged Ram Temple donation irregularities case, saying anyone found guilty should face imprisonment.

Speaking on the controversy surrounding alleged financial irregularities linked to donations made to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Mr Kumar asserted that the matter should be investigated thoroughly and impartially.

“The guilty should be jailed,” he said, stressing that no one involved in wrongdoing should be spared, irrespective of their position or status.

Mr Kumar also supported the registration of an FIR and called for a comprehensive probe into the allegations. He said the investigation should be completed quickly so that the truth emerges at the earliest.

Emphasising the need for transparency, the VHP leader said a fast-track trial should be considered if evidence establishes wrongdoing. According to him, swift legal action would help maintain public confidence in institutions associated with the temple.

The remarks come amid an ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities in the handling of donations linked to the Ram Temple. Authorities have already initiated action in the matter, with several accused arrested as the probe continues.

Officials are examining the allegations, and further action is expected based on the findings of the investigation.