Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Wednesday reacted to the controversy surrounding BSNL Director Vivek Banzal’s now-scrapped Prayagraj visit, calling the reported luxury treatment as improper.
Scindia said a showcause notice has been issued to the director of the Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited over his proposed Prayagraj visit, adding he has seven days to submit an explanation post which an appropriate action will be taken.
The minister said Banzal’s conduct was unacceptable and shocking, while the “royal treatment” planned for the director during his stay in the holy Uttar Pradesh city was a violation of established rules and traditions.
“Certain questions were raised to me yesterday by the media and 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 told reporters.
“A show cause notice has already been issued to the Director with a seven-day response period. We will take appropriate action,” he added.
Scindia categorically stated that any kind of “royal treatment” for officials in today’s age was unfathomable and those behind the entire episode will not be spared.
The controversial order that kicked up a storm
A BSNL Deputy General Manager had issued an official order in which it was stated that nearly 50 staff members will be on duty for two days to take care of 21 different tasks associated with Director Banzal’s Prayagraj visit.
The order detailed a minute-to-minute itinerary and plan, including making arrangements for the director for boat rides, temple visits, and holy dips at the Triveni Sangam. What triggered the biggest uproar was the detailing on the preparation of bathing kits containing towels, oil, a comb, and even undergarments.
According to the controversial order, officials were also deputed for duties like arranging suits, clicking photographs, organising transport, and stocking vehicles with water bottles, chocolates, chips and other refreshments.
It is noteworthy that the visit appeared to be a personal one. It has now been cancelled following the controversy.
The state-run BSNL has yet to issue an official statement on the matter.