Scindia criticises BSNL Director's Prayagraj visit plans

Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Wednesday criticised the "absurd and shocking" arrangements linked to BSNL director Vivek Banzal’s planned visit to Prayagraj, calling the conduct unacceptable and confirming a show-cause notice has been issued. The two-day trip, scheduled for February 25-26, has been cancelled pending an official inquiry.

The proposed itinerary reportedly included a dip at the Sangam, a boat ride, and visits to Bade Hanuman Mandir, Akshayavat, and Patalpuri temples. Office orders detailed around 20 tasks and assigned 50 officials to manage transport, accommodation, and personal arrangements for Banzal. Plans reportedly included 'Snan' kits with towels, undergarments, slippers, combs, mirrors, soap, shampoo, and oil – six for males and two for females – along with a general-use bed sheet at the ghat. Hotel arrangements reportedly included dry fruits, fruit bowls, towels, toiletries, and shaving kits for the director and possibly his guests.

Scindia described the arrangements as "beyond absurd" and "shocking," saying they flouted all rules and traditions. He emphasised that such orders are unacceptable in India today.

A BSNL statement on X on February 21 said the company has standing instructions regarding official visits. The instance of non-adherence was noted as not in line with professional standards and values. Appropriate action has been taken, and employees have been reminded to strictly follow prescribed conduct rules.

Vivek Banzal, 59, who became a BSNL board director in October 2018, is an Indian Telecommunication Service officer of the 1987 batch. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics, a Master of Engineering in Computer Science, and an MBA. With over 34 years in telecom management, he has promoted Bharat Fiber, BSNL IT frameworks, and other services, leading digitisation of processes and customer-focused innovations.

Banzal, who is due to retire at the end of September this year, could not be reached for comments. The office order detailing the elaborate trip had gone viral on social media, prompting the ministry and BSNL to intervene.

The show-cause notice marks the official response to what authorities termed a serious breach of rules, highlighting the need for strict adherence to official protocols for government officials.