Dhaka, Jan. 21 -- The Bangladesh Nationalist Party's (BNP) efforts to enforce discipline have failed to stop a potentially self-defeating internal challenge in the general election.

Despite expulsions, back-channel talks and repeated warnings from the top leadership, around 87 grassroots leaders have refused to step aside, remaining in the race as independent candidates in at least 76 constituencies.

The figure, equivalent to nearly one-quarter of all parliamentary seats, emerged from an analysis of Election Commission data on Tuesday, the final day for withdrawal of nominations. The commission is due to allocate election symbols to candidates on Wednesday.

Those still contesting include former MPs, ex-central committee leaders, distri...