Scindia Slams BSNL Director's Lavish Treatment as Unacceptable
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New Delhi, Feb 25 (NationPress) Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia condemned the reported extravagant treatment of a BSNL Director, labelling it as "inappropriate" and a breach of established protocols. Scindia expressed his astonishment and disappointment regarding such conduct and confirmed the issuance of a show cause notice.
The uproar began after revelations surfaced about the extensive arrangements prepared for Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited Director Vivek Bansal during his intended visit to Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.
Addressing inquiries from the press, Scindia stated that he had unequivocally classified the incident as a deviation from established norms and traditions.
“Yesterday, the media raised certain concerns with me, and I clarified that this is inappropriate and against established regulations and traditions. I find it unacceptable and shocking,” Scindia informed reporters.
“A show cause notice has already been dispatched to the Director, granting a seven-day window for a response. We will take suitable measures thereafter,” he added.
Scindia further emphasized that in contemporary times, any form of "luxurious treatment" for officials is unimaginable and made it clear that those culpable will face consequences.
An official directive from a Deputy General Manager revealed that approximately 50 personnel were assigned over two days to facilitate 21 distinct tasks associated with the visit.
The detailed itinerary reportedly included arrangements for boat rides, temple excursions, sacred dips at the Triveni Sangam, and the preparation of bathing kits comprising towels, oil, combs, and even undergarments.
Officials were also tasked with duties such as arranging attire, taking photographs, coordinating transport, and stocking vehicles with water bottles, chocolates, chips, and various refreshments.
The document, which gained traction on social media, incited significant backlash over the magnitude of arrangements and the misuse of public sector resources for what seemed to be a personal visit.
Following the controversy, Bansal's visit was promptly cancelled. BSNL, which reported a loss exceeding Rs 1,300 crore in the previous quarter, has yet to issue an official statement on the origins of such an extensive plan.