The parties decided to reach consensus on the form of governance, federalism, electoral system and modality of judiciary within October 7 and present a report at full House Constituent Assembly on October 8.

Earlier, parties missed two deadlines: mid-September and September 30—given by CA to reach consensus on these agendas. Parties face challenges to prepare the first draft of new constitution by mid-October as per the CA calendar.

Cross-party leaders have already said it is not possible to prepare the first draft within the stipulated time frame.

They have made an understanding to initiate intensive discussions from October 5 on the contentious issues. As per the understanding, second-rung leaders will settle the issues related to electoral system and judiciary, among others. Top leaders will try to make an agreement on forms of governance and federalism.

In a press meet, Political Dialogue and Consensus Committee Chairman Baburam Bhattarai said despite challenges, parties will make efforts to reach agreement on issues such as federalism and forms of governance. He said there is still a huge gap between parties mainly on the issue of federalism.

Bhattarai on Monday floated his idea on contentious issues of new constitution which drew criticism from ruling parties Nepali Congress and CPN-UML. After the criticism, Bhattarai said his proposal should be taken as a reference document and not as a proposal. Even his party, UCPN (Maoist), has disowned Bhattarai's idea.

"Parties have committed to settle all contentious issues and submit reports by October 7. I hope they will reach consensus on all disputed issues," CA Chairman Subas Nembang said. Parties have also agreed to resume the House from October 8 settling the issue related to High-Level Political Committee.