The Centre on Wednesday issued a show-cause notice to Vivek Banzal, Director (Consumer Fixed Access – CFA) at Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), following controversy over his detailed travel itinerary for a two-day visit to Prayagraj.
Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia strongly objected to the arrangements outlined in the now-viral document, describing them as a violation of established norms.
“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, adding that appropriate action would follow.
Elaborate Arrangements Spark Online Backlash
Banzal, an Indian Telecommunication Service officer from the 1987 batch with over 35 years of experience, was scheduled to travel to Prayagraj on February 25–26. However, the visit was reportedly cancelled after the itinerary drew public scrutiny.
A 21-point document detailing arrangements for the trip circulated widely on social media. The plan allegedly assigned nearly 50 officials — including junior technical officers, engineers, and divisional-level staff — to oversee various aspects of the visit.
Bath Kits, Temple Visits and “Comfort Management”
The itinerary reportedly included elaborate logistical arrangements for visits to the Sangam, Hanuman Temple, Akshayavat, and Patalpuri Temple.
Among the details that attracted attention were provisions for personal care items such as hair oil, combs, toothpaste, shaving kits, slippers, and undergarments. Reports indicated that eight bath kits — six for men and two for women — were arranged, with a senior official designated to supervise post-bath coordination.
The extensive preparations were described in the document as part of “comfort management” during the director’s stay.
Government Response and Next Steps
The Ministry of Communications has initiated formal proceedings by issuing a show-cause notice to Banzal, seeking an explanation for the arrangements.
Officials indicated that further action will depend on the response submitted by the BSNL director.
The incident has sparked wider discussions about accountability, protocol compliance, and the use of public resources within government-run organisations.
