A key development has emerged in the Telangana MLA defection case, adding new momentum to a politically sensitive issue. Telangana Assembly Speaker Gaddam Prasad Kumar has issued notices to Khairatabad MLA Danam Nagender, who is facing allegations of party defection. Notices have also been served to Padi Kaushik Reddy, the BRS legislator who filed the disqualification petition against Danam.

Both leaders have been directed to appear before the Speaker for a hearing on the 30th of this month. The move has intensified political interest, as Danam Nagender is one of three MLAs whose cases were still pending before the Speaker.

So far, disqualification petitions were filed against ten MLAs. The Speaker has already given a clean chit to seven of them, including Arikapudi Gandhi, Gudam Mahipal Reddy, Bandla Krishna Mohan, Prakash Goud, Tellam Venkata Rao, Pocharam Srinivas Reddy, and Kale Yadaiah. They continue to be recognised as BRS MLAs. However, no final decision has been taken yet in the cases involving Danam Nagender, Kadiyam Srihari, and Dr Sanjay.

The latest action follows a strong warning from the Supreme Court of India, which issued contempt notices to the Speaker on the 19th of this month over delays in deciding the disqualification petitions. The court cautioned that strict action could follow if further delays continue.

Danam Nagender’s case has drawn special attention since he remained a BRS MLA while contesting the 2024 Lok Sabha elections on a Congress ticket. This has strengthened arguments that defection rules apply in his case. Political circles are also abuzz with speculation that Danam may resign as MLA before any adverse decision and opt for a by election.