Dhaka, Oct. 31 -- Fresh tension has once again gripped the country's political landscape as major parties remain sharply divided over the timing and process of a proposed referendum on the July National Charter.

The dispute follows the National Consensus Commission's submission of its final report to the interim government, recommending steps to implement the much-debated Charter - a framework for sweeping political and constitutional reforms.

The BNP, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, and the National Citizens' Party (NCP) have each voiced contrasting views on how and when the referendum should be held.

The rift has surfaced at a critical juncture, with national elections scheduled for February next year. Despite months of dialogue and repe...