Lucknow, Feb 21 (UNI) With the announcement of much awaited assembly election in Uttar Pradesh in seven phases in April-May, model code of conduct has come into force with immediate effect.

State Chief Alectoral Officer (CEO) Anuj Kumar Bishnoi said here model code of conduct has come into force with immediate effect.

''Now the ministers would not be able to use their official vehicles or attend any government functions,'' he added.

Mr Bishnoi said any transfer will be effective only after an approval by the Election Commission (EC).

However, the EC has ordered removal of officials, including police personnel, who are posted in one place for more than three years.

The CEO said holding the election in seven phases will help the EC to monitor the poll process in a more efficient manner to ensure free and fair polling.

''We have been assured adequate central forces to conduct the poll in a free and fair manner,'' he added.

EC announced seven phase poll dates in UP on April 7, 13, 18, 23, 28, May 3 and 8, while the counting of votes for all phases would be done on May 11.

This would be the first time that UP assembly poll would be spread out in seven phases.

In 2002 assembly poll, the elections were held in three phases.

The present assembly term expires on May 14.

UNI