India, Dec. 9 -- The Election Commission of India (ECI) has directed national and state-recognised political parties to submit, within 30 days, updated versions of their constitutions, including amendments made so far. The directive came as the Supreme Court examines a plea seeking statutory regulation on how political parties are registered and run.

In a communication to the parties on Monday, the ECI said that when a political party registers under Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, it has to submit its memorandum, rules, and regulations. The ECI added that constitutions form an essential part of these documents and must reflect the internal procedures adopted over time.

"As the party constitution is an importa...