India, Nov. 28 -- Amid renewed chatter over a leadership rift within the Karnataka Congress, a fresh twist emerged on Friday when prominent Vokkaliga spiritual leader Nanjavadutha Swamiji visited Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar's residence and openly backed him for the Chief Minister's post.

The endorsement comes at a time when speculation is rife about a possible power tussle between CM Siddaramaiah and his deputy.

After the meeting, Nanjavadutha Swamiji said Shivakumar had long earned the right to lead the state, praising him for strengthening the Congress during its most difficult phase and for remaining steadfastly loyal to the Gandhi family.

He described Shivakumar as a "prominent leader of the community" who worked "tirelessl...