Bangladesh, Sept. 24 -- A nationwide survey has revealed deep divisions over whether the Awami League, toppled from power on Aug 5 last year by a student-led mass uprising, should be allowed to contest the upcoming national election, even as support for the party has risen slightly since March.

The People's Election Pulse Survey (PEPS), conducted between Sept 2-15 by Innovision Consulting, found that 45.79 percent of respondents want all parties to participate, while 45.58 percent believe the Awami League should be barred until it faces trial for alleged crimes against humanity committed in efforts to suppress the July Uprising.

Younger voters and university students were in the majority of those who oppose the party's immediate return ...