The government deems the BSNL director’s extravagant Prayagraj tour plan intolerable.

In response to the controversy sparked by an internal office directive detailing the plans for Vivek Banzal’s now-canceled visit, Scindia stated, “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.” He added that a show-cause notice has already been issued to the director with a seven-day response period and that appropriate action would follow after examining the reply.

An office order detailing preparations for Banzal’s planned visit to Prayagraj is the source of the controversy. The directive, which received a lot of social media attention, sparked complaints about the purported abuse of public employees and assets for what seemed to be a primarily private religious journey. According to official sources, the behavior outlined in the protocol plan was considered “highly condemnable,” and the issue “will not be let off easily.” They stated that after reviewing Banzal’s response, further action would be determined.

“The government considers the episode completely bizarre and unacceptable. Accountability will be fixed based on the explanation submitted,” sources said, stressing that such instances damage institutional credibility.

The protocol document states that in order to make sure the visit went well, over fifty BSNL officers and employees were given particular tasks. Movement, hospitality preparations, bathing logistics, and post-visit planning were handled by different teams. Throughout the schedule, including the planned visit to the Triveni Sangam and other temples in Prayagraj, officials were directed to set up many “snan” kits with towels, underwear, and personal care items in addition to refreshments and escort services.

Additionally, the plan mandated that local transportation cars be equipped with water bottles, snacks, and other amenities. Additionally, specialized workers were tasked with tasks ranging from taking pictures to handling personal possessions following bathing rites.

A comprehensive minute-by-minute itinerary encompassing reception at the train station, temple visits, holy dips, meals, transportation, and daily personal logistics was communicated on February 19 at the deputy general manager level.

Soon after, the document started making the rounds on social media, sparking harsh criticism for what some users called a “royal protocol” and rekindling discussions about VIP culture and the use of public resources by government-run organizations.Within a day of the documents going online, the planned visit was canceled due to growing criticism and the situation being escalated by higher officials. 

Ashish Gupta, the BSNL Public Relations Officer, stated that the issued protocol should now be regarded as null and confirmed that the director’s Prayagraj program had been revoked. Regarding the uproar around the arrangements, he declined to comment.