‘Unacceptable’: Govt Serves Show-Cause Notice to BSNL Director Over Prayagraj VIP Protocol Controversy

A senior official of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has been served a show-cause notice after an internal office order detailing elaborate arrangements for his proposed visit to Prayagraj triggered a controversy.

The notice was issued to BSNL Director Vivek Banzal following public criticism over the scale of protocol preparations outlined for the trip. Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia termed the episode “unacceptable” and said explanations have been sought.

“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,” Scindia told news agency ANI.

Visit Cancelled After Order Goes Viral

The controversy erupted after an internal circular detailing extensive arrangements for Banzal’s two-day visit, scheduled for February 25–26, surfaced on social media. The document assigned nearly 20 responsibilities to close to 50 officials, prompting allegations of misuse of public sector resources.

Following the backlash, officials confirmed that the Prayagraj visit was cancelled.

Detailed Protocol Sparked Criticism

According to the viral order, the itinerary included a visit to the Sangam for ritual bathing, a boat ride, and trips to prominent temples such as Bade Hanuman Mandir, Akshayavat and Patalpuri.

The instructions also specified the arrangement of ‘snan’ kits containing towels, slippers, combs, mirrors, oil bottles and undergarments. Separate kits for male and female members were listed, along with provisions such as bedsheets at the ghat.

At the hotel and Circuit House, the order directed officials to arrange dry fruits, fresh fruit bowls, toiletries, shaving kits and other personal-use items.

The scale and specificity of the preparations drew sharp reactions online, with critics questioning whether such arrangements were appropriate for a public sector official. The government has indicated that further action will depend on the explanation submitted in response to the show-cause notice.