Nearly 50-degree heat wave disrupts elections in India

North India is currently experiencing extreme heat. Delhi recorded a temperature of over 49 degrees. This is already the fifth wave since March. According to the weather forecast, there is no relief in the next few days.

Tanveer Aijaz, who teaches at Delhi University, describes the heat as torture. “The demand for electricity in the city has reached a new high as everyone tries to cool their homes with air conditioners and fans.” At the same time, water supply has been affected in some parts of the megacity as the water level of the Yamuna river continues to recede.

On the other hand Pappu, a tour guide from Varanasi, is happy to have electricity. Until a few weeks ago, it was not offered. “The heat is now a bit more bearable than the less extreme temperatures of the past, because at least the interior can be cooled.”

Making matters worse: the world’s biggest government election is currently underway in India. As the BBC writes, voter turnout in the first two phases has dropped by three percent compared to the last election. This could also be due to the weather.

Aijaz also expects low turnout when Delhi goes to polls across the city on May 25. It can be assumed that especially the upper and middle classes are staying away from the elections due to extreme heat. “I heard some of them have already gone to the mountains to enjoy the holiday weekend.”

This will mostly benefit the opposition INC and its allies (India). In contrast to the conservative ruling party, the BJP, the INC is considered left-liberal and secular.

The effect is observed on the official side as well. “Party workers are less interested in promoting their parties.” And the Election Committee has advised all the voters to be careful in this extreme heat. Standing in long queues outside polling offices can be dangerous, especially for the elderly.