Eiffel Tower Closes as Dispute Erupts Over Women Staff Being Sidelined During Visit

The Eiffel Tower temporarily closed on Monday after employees protested allegations of gender discrimination during a private visit by a BAPS delegation. Around 100 people linked to the Hindu organisation visited the landmark on Saturday during celebrations for a newly inaugurated temple near Paris. Union representatives alleged that female employees were asked to leave their workstations as the delegation passed through. Male employees reportedly replaced them in those areas. The incident angered staff members and prompted them to demand immediate discussions with management. Employees also called for measures to ensure that women never face similar treatment at the workplace.

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Eiffel Tower Staff Protest Alleged Gender Discrimination

BAPS denied knowing about any situation in which female employees were asked to leave their positions. The organisation said it had coordinated the visit with Eiffel Tower authorities and scheduled it during regular opening hours. BAPS said the arrangements aimed to reduce disruption and maintain normal access for visitors. The organisation expressed regret if anyone felt hurt or inconvenienced by the situation. It also apologised to those affected and reaffirmed its commitment to mutual respect. However, the allegations have continued to attract attention as workers and officials seek clarity over what happened.

Paris Mayor Emmanuel Grégoire ordered an investigation into the allegations following the employees’ protest. He said workers had legitimate concerns and deserved urgent attention from authorities. Grégoire described the reported conditions as unacceptable and stressed that they did not represent Paris’s values. He said everyone must have the freedom to work and move without gender-based discrimination. The mayor also emphasised that gender equality must apply across Paris, including its famous landmarks. He promised to clarify the circumstances behind the protest and ensure that equality rules remain firmly enforced.

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Paris Authorities Order Probe Into BAPS Visit Controversy

The Eiffel Tower operator, Société d’Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel, also acknowledged the controversy. SETE said the delegation had requested arrangements designed to limit interactions with female employees. The company admitted that management should not have accepted such conditions. However, it did not explain why the delegation made the request or how officials handled it. SETE President Ariel Weil said the company would investigate the incident and determine the necessary conclusions. The CGT trade union meanwhile condemned the reported instructions, saying they sidelined and replaced women because of their gender.

The controversy has also drawn criticism from France’s National Assembly President Yaël Braun-Pivet. She said women should never have to step aside to satisfy demands from foreign visitors. The incident comes shortly after BAPS inaugurated its first major Hindu temple in France near Paris. Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the ceremony and highlighted the temple’s role in strengthening cultural ties between India and France. The Eiffel Tower dispute has now sparked a wider debate about gender equality, workplace rights and cultural accommodation. Authorities are expected to investigate the incident and determine who approved the disputed arrangements.

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