Chhattisgarh BJP Minister's brother Guru Dhaldas Saheb joins Congress

Guru Dhaldas Saheb, a prominent figure from Chhattisgarh's Satnami community and brother to Chhattisgarh Minister and BJP leader Guru Khushwant Saheb, has transitioned to the Opposition Congress. The Satnami community, which constitutes around 13% of Chhattisgarh's population, is the largest Scheduled Castes group in the state. Dhaldas' family is descended from Baba Guru Ghasidas, who established the Satnam Panth in the 19th century.

Guru Khushwant Saheb and their father, Guru Baldas Saheb, had previously defected from the Congress to join the BJP in 2023 for the State Assembly elections, with Khushwant winning from the Arang Assembly constituency. Dhaldas joined the Opposition party alongside former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel at the latter's official residence on September 11, 2026.

Baghel expressed his hope that Dhaldas would help remove the BJP from power. State Congress president Deepak Baij hinted that more BJP leaders might follow suit. Dhaldas cited the BJP's deviation from Guru Baba Ghasidas' principles as his reason for joining Congress. He also mentioned his family's approval of his decision, stating that there were no political differences among them despite his defection.

Dhaldas expressed his interest in contesting the 2028 Assembly polls, should the Congress provide him with an opportunity, with Mungeli, a Scheduled Caste-reserved constituency, being his preferred seat. Dhaldas clarified that he would contest from Arang if his brother is not chosen by the BJP.