In a striking political shift that underscores deepening fissures within Chhattisgarh's ruling BJP, Guru Dhaldas Saheb—older brother of state minister Guru Khushwant Saheb—crossed over to the Congress on Friday. The move, sealed at former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel’s residence, signals more than just a family disagreement; it hints at broader discontent within the state’s influential Satnami community.

  • Guru Dhaldas Saheb joined Congress on September 11, 2026.
  • He is the brother of BJP Minister Guru Khushwant Saheb.
  • The Satnami community comprises 13% of Chhattisgarh’s population.
  • Dhaldas aims to contest the 2028 Assembly polls, possibly from Mungeli or Arang.

A Legacy of Influence

The Saheb family descends from Baba Guru Ghasidas, the 19th-century founder of the Satnam Panth. This community, making up the largest Scheduled Castes group in Chhattisgarh, holds significant electoral sway. Just three years ago, Guru Khushwant Saheb and his father left Congress for the BJP, with Khushwant winning from Arang. Now, Dhaldas’s defection flips the script—and the Congress is eager to capitalize.

Reactions and Ramifications

State Congress president Deepak Baij didn’t hold back, calling Dhaldas’s entry “just the trailer” and teasing that more “naraz phuphas” (grumpy uncles)—a phrase coined by PM Modi—are ready to jump ship. Bhupesh Baghel, welcoming Dhaldas, posted on X: “The beginning has been made. Together, we will remove the BJP.” The BJP has yet to respond, but the timing—ahead of the 2028 polls—adds urgency to the drama.

“The BJP was not acting according to the principles of Guru Baba Ghasidas,” Dhaldas told reporters, explaining his switch. He insisted there were no family rifts, just a difference in political alignment.

Eyes on the Ballot

Dhaldas made no secret of his ambitions. “If I don’t contest elections, how will I serve the people?” he said, naming Mungeli, a reserved SC seat, as his preferred constituency. He even left the door open for Arang—his brother’s current seat—if the BJP doesn’t re-nominate Khushwant. It’s a clear play for Satnami support, and Congress seems willing to bet on his legacy.