The Eiffel Tower was closed on Monday as employees initiated a strike in response to the alleged mistreatment of female staff during a visit by a Hindu religious group associated with BAPS. The closure represented a significant action by the workforce concerned about equality and workplace conditions.

The strike arose after the delegation, consisting of approximately 100 individuals linked to the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha, reportedly requested that their visit be managed to “limit interactions with women” at the landmark. This request was later acknowledged by the tower’s management as inappropriate, leading to considerable discontent among staff.

Diane Davoine, representing a union for the staff, disclosed that female employees were allegedly removed from their work locations during the delegation’s presence. Such incidents sparked a wider conversation regarding the treatment of women in public roles and spaces.

Reactions from Management and Authorities

Paris Mayor Emmanuel Gregoire voiced support for the protesting staff, acknowledging the validity of their anger. In a statement via the social media platform X, he asserted that workplace equality must prevail in all spaces, and pledged to ensure an investigation into the incident was conducted promptly.

Gregoire asserted that the values of equality must be upheld, stating that no one should be compelled to diminish their presence based on gender or any other criteria. The mayor highlighted the importance of thorough investigation to achieve transparency following the incident.

Responses from BAPS and Political Leaders

The BAPS Hindu temple in Paris issued a formal apology, claiming to understand the concerns raised and expressing regret over the incident. They emphasised that the visit was arranged in coordination with the Eiffel Tower teams to minimise disruption. Furthermore, they stated that access to the tower was not restricted for any attendees.

The temple characterised its mission as one of respect and service to all, asserting its commitment to universal values. BAPS also reported that it recently consecrated a new temple in France, expanding its reach in the region.

Political leaders in France have also reacted strongly to the incident. National Assembly President Yael Braun-Pivet condemned the actions taken during the visit, asserting that women should not be compelled to step aside for visitors. She underscored that in France, public spaces are to be equally accessible to women.

Gender Equality Minister Aurore Berge remarked that the demand for women to retreat is fundamentally unacceptable, reiterating that no cultural or religious belief supersedes France’s principles of equality. Former Prime Minister Gabriel Attal also expressed support for the workforce, reinforcing that women’s rights to occupy public spaces must be respected.

The strike marked a significant closure of one of France’s most iconic landmarks. Following extensive discussions between staff and management, the Eiffel Tower is set to resume operations on Tuesday. An investigation will aim to clarify the events surrounding the staff’s grievances and ensure that such occurrences are not repeated in the future.

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