The government on Wednesday responded to the controversy involving Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) Director Vivek Banzal, whose planned visit to Prayagraj was called off after details of the trip triggered public outrage.

Scindia Calls It “Improper”

Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia strongly criticised the arrangements made for the senior official’s two-day visit. He said a show-cause notice has been issued to Banzal, giving him seven days to respond.

“I have made it very clear that this is improper and a violation of established rules and traditions. It is unacceptable to me. It is shocking,” Scindia said, as quoted by ANI. He added that suitable action will follow.

Lavish Arrangements Spark Row

Vivek Banzal, a 1987-batch telecom service officer with more than 35 years of experience, currently serves as Director (Consumer Fixed Access – CFA) at BSNL. His February 25–26 trip to Prayagraj drew attention after a detailed 21-point itinerary surfaced online.

The document revealed extensive preparations for his stay. Nearly 50 officials were reportedly assigned to assist him. These included junior technical officers, engineers, sub-divisional engineers, and divisional engineers.

The plan also listed arrangements for a bath at the Sangam and visits to the Hanuman Temple, Akshayavat, and Patalpuri Temple. The instructions focused heavily on ensuring Banzal’s “comfort management” during the visit.

The document mentioned personal items such as hair oil, underwear, combs, toothpaste, toothbrushes, shaving kits, and slippers. Reports said eight bath kits were prepared—six for men and two for women. A senior official was reportedly assigned to supervise post-bath arrangements.

Trip Cancelled After Public Backlash

Once the itinerary went viral, it triggered sharp criticism on social media. Many questioned whether the visit was official and whether public resources were being used for personal comfort.

The trip was cancelled just a day before it was scheduled to begin.

BSNL later issued a statement distancing itself from the incident. The company said the matter did not reflect its professional standards and values.

“Appropriate action has been taken against the concerned. Further instructions have been issued reiterating strict adherence to extant guidelines. BSNL employees are reminded to comply fully with prescribed conduct rules and instructions in this regard,” the statement said.

The controversy has now placed the focus on accountability and adherence to official conduct rules within public sector organisations.