BSNL's Extravagant Protocol for Top Official in Prayagraj Triggers Public Fury and Swift Cancellation
A detailed protocol prepared by Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) for the upcoming visit of a senior official to Prayagraj has ignited significant controversy and embarrassment for the state-run telecom giant. The plan, which included meticulous arrangements down to personal toiletries, was leaked online, leading to widespread criticism and its subsequent cancellation.
Leaked Protocol Reveals Lavish Arrangements Involving 50 Officials
According to reports, the visit was scheduled for February 25 and 26, during which the director (CFA) was to conduct review meetings and offer prayers at a Jain pilgrimage site in Kaushambi. On February 19, BSNL authorities drafted an extensive protocol order, mobilizing a team of approximately 50 officials to manage the itinerary.
The protocol outlined committees tasked with handling every aspect of the visit, from logistical coordination to personal comforts. Welcome kits were to include water bottles, chocolate, chips, and fruit juice, while personal-use kits featured new towels, undergarments, sleepers, and grooming essentials like hair oil. Additionally, arrangements specified two white Innova cars equipped with fresh towels.
Minute-by-Minute Itinerary and Social Media Backlash
The order provided a minute-to-minute breakdown of the official's schedule, assigning specific roles and responsibilities to officers at various locations. It emphasized, "It is requested to all officers/officials for active participation, efforts and contribution towards successful completion of the visit scheduled." Structured with four columns—programme, description, committee member, and date and time—the document left no detail unchecked.
All staff were instructed to ensure a seamless visit, with committee members held accountable for timely task completion. However, once the order circulated on social media, public outrage erupted over the inclusion of senior officers handling toiletries and other personal items, deeming it excessive and unprofessional.
BSNL Responds with Cancellation and Official Statement
Amid the growing online uproar, BSNL cancelled the order with immediate effect on February 20. The company addressed the issue on its X handle, stating, "BSNL has standing instructions in place regarding the manner in which official visits are to be handled. An instance of non-adherence to the same has been taken note of. The instance noted is not in conformity with the professional standards and values of BSNL. Appropriate action have been taken against the concerned. Further, instructions have been issued reiterating strict adherence to extant instructions. BSNL employees are reminded to strictly adhere to prescribed conduct rules and instructions in this regard."
A senior BSNL official later confirmed that the protocol was accidentally leaked online. He explained, "The order was meant to assign duties to the officials concerned about their roles and responsibilities as per the protocol plan assuming that each official should perform their assigned duties during the visit." This incident highlights ongoing challenges within government entities regarding protocol adherence and public perception, particularly in an era of rapid social media scrutiny.
