LUCKNOW: The Election Commission of India issued a notification for by-election to fill the casual vacancies in the legislative assemblies of Meghalaya, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal on Monday.

The model code of conduct will come into play with immediate effect. In UP, the reserved seat of Bhadohi is lying vacant following the death of the Bahujan Samajwadi Party MLA, Archana Saroj, who died after a prolonged illness recently.

As per the schedule announced, the process for nominations would begin soon after notifications. The last date for making nominations is February 9.

The entries will be scrutinised by the state election commission on February 10. The last date for withdrawal of candidature is February 12. Polling for the seat will take place on February 26, 2009.

Votes will be counted on March 1. The deadline for completion of the by-election process is March 5.