Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has strongly criticised Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) Director Vivek Banzal for what he described as a “shocking” breach of protocol, following the leak of an internal document outlining extravagant arrangements for a planned visit to Prayagraj. A show-cause notice has been issued to Banzal, with a seven-day deadline for response, amid widespread public outrage over the perceived misuse of public resources.
On BSNL Director Vivek Banzal, Union Minister of Communication Jyotiraditya Scindia says, "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. A show-cause notice has already been issued to… pic.twitter.com/D4PsaKJA82
— ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2026
The controversy erupted after an office order dated 19 February, detailing preparations for Banzal’s two-day trip scheduled for 25-26 February, went viral on social media. The document, issued by a senior BSNL official, assigned duties to over 50 staff members to manage every aspect of the director’s itinerary. This included provisions for multiple “snan kits” (bathing kits) containing towels, soaps, and shampoos; arrangements for a holy dip at the Sangam; a boat ride; visits to local temples such as Bade Hanuman Mandir, Akshayavat, and Patalpuri; and even post-bath requirements like dry fruits, tea, and coffee.
The SOP also specified luxury accommodations, airport pick-up in premium vehicles, and dedicated teams for photography, videography, and media management.
Top BSNL official visit to Prayagraj: 50 junior officials tasked to ensure everything from luxury to bare essentials – even underwear
— Piyush Rai (@Benarasiyaa) February 23, 2026
Travel itinerary of a top BSNL employee's trip to Prayagraj gives a sneak peek into how this public sector telecom company went to the dogs. More… pic.twitter.com/EddCJn30Id
It went viral on social media as an example of entrenched “VIP culture” within public sector undertakings, with social media users slamming the lavishness at a time when BSNL, India’s state-owned telecom giant, continues to grapple with financial losses and operational challenges.
Minister Scindia addressed the issue today, stating: “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. A show-cause notice has already been issued to the Director with a seven-day response period. We will take appropriate action.”
The visit was promptly cancelled following the backlash, and govt sources said that the arrangements made for the official’s visit were viewed as “highly condemnable”. The sources added that the matter “will not be let off easily,” and further action would be decided after examining Banzal’s response to the show-cause notice.
“The government considers the episode completely bizarre and unacceptable. Accountability will be fixed based on the explanation submitted,” govt sources reportedly said.
