Chawla said: 'The model code of conduct comes into effect immediately. All the provisions of the model code will apply to the whole of the states and will be applicable to all candidates, political parties, the state and the central governments.'

He warned candidates and political parties against using religion to woo voters.

'There shall be no appeal (on) caste or communal (lines). Mosques, churches, temples or other places of worship will not be used for election propaganda,' he said.

The term of assemblies in Arunachal Pradesh and Maharashtra are due to expire Oct 25 and Nov 3 respectively. The Haryana assembly was dissolved Aug 21.

The state elections would be conducted using Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).

Asked about complaints against EVMs during the Lok Sabha election, Chawla said: 'The EVMs are working well.'

Chawla said that central police forces and state armed police drawn from other states would be deployed during the polling along with observers for the smooth conduct of elections.

'The commission expects all officials engaged in the conduct of elections to discharge their duties in an impartial manner,' he said.