New Delhi, Sep 12 (IANS): The National Democratic Alliance government at the centre was free to publicise the achievements of the first 100 days of its rule, but should refrain from mentioning anything related to Haryana and Maharashtra which go to polls on Oct 15, the Election Commission said Friday.

The model code of conduct for elections to the two states, dates for which were announced Friday, would be applicable with immediate effect, Chief Election Commissioner V.S. Sampath said at a press conference here.

"All the provisions of the model code will apply to the whole of poll going states and will be applicable to all candidates, political parties, the state government of Haryana and Maharashtra. The model code of conduct shall be applicable to the union government for the states concerned," he said.

Asked specifically whether it would mean barring the centre from bringing out the achievements of the NDA government, he said: "Any decision which will influence the voters of that state will come under the model code of conduct".