The Nepali Congress has reached out to the Madhes-based parties seeking their vote for passing the parliamentary regulations that have been stuck for more than six months due to differences between the ruling and opposition parties.

In a meeting with Madhesi leaders in the Capital on Friday, NC leaders sought support to their position on approving the regulations. The Madhesi leaders responded that they needed time to study the matter as they were busy with their agitation.

Laxman Lal Karna, Parliamentary Party leader of the Sadbhawana Party, said the Madhesi Morcha would have to discuss the agenda. NC leaders, however, claimed that the regional parties have indicated their support.

The size of the Parliamentary Hearing Special Committee is the major bone of contention in the rules drafted by a team led by Radheshyam Adhikari. The Congress has been pressing for retaining the old strength, 75, of the hearing committee while the ruling parties want a 15-member committee as provisioned in the new constitution.

In the absence of the regulations, hearing for key nominations such as the chief justice and ambassadors has not been held for long.

Parties have said that the issue will be put to a vote in Parliament if the differences are not sorted in consensus. The ruling and opposition have registered separate amendment proposals to the regulations tabled in Parliament.