What Sparked Jyotiraditya Scindia's Outrage Over BSNL Director's Visit?
Minister Criticizes Excessive Hospitality Requests
New Delhi: On Wednesday, Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia expressed his disapproval of the "absurd and shocking" demands associated with a senior BSNL director's planned visit to Prayagraj, labeling them as "unacceptable" and confirming that a show-cause notice has been issued.
The Minister's remarks gained attention following the emergence of details regarding lavish hospitality arrangements for BSNL Director Vivek Banzal's official trip, which included requests for personal care items like soaps, combs, and shampoos. This office order sparked outrage over perceived entitlement and raised concerns about the misuse of public funds.
In light of the backlash, the visit was ultimately canceled after the extensive itinerary, which reportedly involved nearly 50 officials and included arrangements for personal items, was widely criticized and mocked on social media.
During a press briefing, Scindia stated that the situation was "unacceptable" and violated established rules and traditions.
"Such an order is intolerable in modern India," he remarked, adding that a show-cause notice had been issued.
He described the demands as "beyond absurd" and "shocking."
According to the office order, which went viral online, Banzal's proposed two-day visit was scheduled for February 25-26.
Approximately 20 tasks were assigned to nearly 50 officials.
Upon arriving in Prayagraj, activities such as bathing in Sangam, a boat ride, and visits to notable temples like Bade Hanuman Mandir, Akshayavat, and Patalpuri were planned. The 'snan' kits included a towel, undergarment, slippers (referred to as sleepers in the order), a comb, a mirror, and an oil bottle.
The order also specified that six male kits (comprising towel, underwear, mirror, comb, soap, shampoo, oil) and two female kits should be prepared.
Additionally, instructions were given to provide one bed sheet for communal use at the ghat.
At the hotel and Circuit House, arrangements for dry fruit bowls, fruit bowls, shaving kits, towels, toothpaste, brushes, soaps, shampoos, combs, and oils were to be made, as stated in the order.
In a post on X dated February 21, BSNL India stated, "BSNL has established guidelines for managing official visits. An instance of non-compliance has been noted. This incident does not align with the professional standards and values of BSNL.
"Appropriate measures have been taken against those involved. Furthermore, instructions have been reiterated to ensure strict adherence to existing guidelines. BSNL employees are reminded to comply with the prescribed conduct rules and instructions in this matter," the post added.
As per the BSNL website, Banzal is an Indian Telecommunication Service officer from 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 of experience in managing telecom networks in India, he has been instrumental in promoting and managing Bharat Fibre (BSNL's FTTH services) since 2016, contributing to the digitization of processes and the introduction of innovative customer solutions.