New Delhi, Aug 17 - The Election Commission Monday censured Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa for violating the model code of conduct by promising loans to farmers in the Kollegal assembly constituency where by-poll is being held Tuesday.

'The commission has decided to censure you for the wilful violation of the model code of conduct and has advised you to be more careful in future,' a statement issued here said.

The by-election is being held because of the vacancy caused by sitting member Dhruvanarayan being elected to the Lok Sabha in April-May.

Issuing a notice to the chief minister Aug 14, the commission said he made various speeches in Yelandur, Santemarahalli, Kollegal during his visit to the assembly constituency.

Yediyurappa during his roadshows promised farmers that he would arrange loans for them to buy cows and buffaloes, the statement said.