Union Communication Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia strongly condemned the grand arrangements made for the visit of BSNL Director Vivek Banjal to Prayagraj on February 25, 2026. They called it “**not acceptable**,” “**shocking**,” “**wrong**,” and a violation of previously established rules and traditions.
Responding to media queries, Scindia said the matter—which was brought to his attention—was “beyond absurd” and cannot be justified in today’s times. He confirmed that Banjal (Director, Consumer Fixed Access) has been issued a **show cause notice** giving him seven days to respond, following which appropriate disciplinary action will be taken.
The controversy started when an internal order of BSNL office (of Prayagraj DGM, dated around February 19) went viral on social media. It called for deployment of around 50 officers and staff over two days (February 25-26) to handle 20-21 tasks like station reception, transport coordination, VIP escorts, temple visits (Bade Hanuman Temple, Akshayvat, Patalpuri), boat rides and holy dip at Triveni Sangam.
Personal items included “bath kits” that included towels, hair oil, combs, undergarments, slippers, and refreshments such as water bottles, chocolates, and snacks in carts. Critics criticized the apparent misuse of public sector resources, which appeared to be mostly for personal/religious needs.
Amid massive protests, BSNL canceled the tour and canceled the protocol. The company – which is facing quarterly losses of more than ₹1,300 crore – has not issued any detailed statement on how the plan was approved or what its responsibilities are.
The episode raised concerns about the VIP culture in government affairs, with Scindia stressing on discipline, adherence to protocol and zero tolerance for irregularities that undermine standards of governance.
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