The four major political forces — Nepali Congress, CPN-UML, Unified CPN-Maoist and United Democratic Madhesi Front —said they were evolving consensus and most probably would find common ground on disputed issues of the constitution by Monday, the deadline given by Constituent Assembly Chairman Subas Nembang.

Earlier, Nembang had floated two alternatives — either forge consensus among the parties by Monday or mandate him to prepare the preliminary draft of the constitution for putting it to vote at the CA full House.

After rounds of separate and joint meetings of the four forces held in Prime Minister Sushil Koirala’s official residence in Baluwatar, the leaders said talks were heading in a positive direction, but they were unable to disclose things as that could spoil the environment for package deal. Before the meeting of the four forces, Koirala had held talks with UML Chairman KP Oli and UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal and leaders of UDMF separately.

“UDMF leaders held a separate meeting with the NC and the talks ended on a very positive note. Then, the talks among the four forces were also very positive.

They were centered on the disputed contents and consensus could be expected by Monday,” said Madhesi Janaadhikar Forum-Democratic Chairman Bijay Kumar Gachhadar.

Nepali Congress leader Narahari Acharya said the talks were heading towards a package deal. “The top leaders will hold one-on-one meetings tomorrow morning before the four forces’ meet in the evening. All attempts are heading towards agreement on the disputed issues,” said Acharya. Once agreement is reached, the parties will take a common proposal to the CA for endorsement, said Acharya.