D.Sudhakar & Ors vs D.N.Jeevanraju & Ors

The Supreme Court held that the mere extension of support to a political leader does not equate to joining a political party, emphasizing that independent legislators retain their identity unless there is clear evidence of intent to join. The Court found that the appellants' actions did not demonstrate a decision to join the Bharatiya Janata Party, thus overturning the Speaker's decision and the High Court's affirmation. The appeals were allowed, and the orders passed by the Speaker and the Full Bench of the High Court were set aside without costs.