Paris’ iconic Eiffel Tower was temporarily closed on Monday after employees protested over the alleged sidelining of female staff during a private visit by a Hindu religious delegation linked to the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS). The incident has since prompted an investigation by Paris authorities.
Eiffel Tower Closes In Paris
According to India Today, the Eiffel Tower remained closed on Monday as staff protested claims that female employees were sidelined during a private visit. The controversy relates to a visit by around 100 people associated with BAPS on Saturday. According to staff union representatives, some female employees were asked to leave their workstations or move away from certain areas while the delegation was present. In some instances, male employees were reportedly placed in their positions.
The Eiffel Tower’s operator, Société d’Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel (SETE), acknowledged that the delegation had requested that the visit be organised to limit interactions with women. The operator said it should not have accepted such conditions and would investigate the circumstances surrounding the decision.
The incident led to a staff protest on Monday, delaying the monument’s opening and eventually keeping it closed for the day. Employees called for assurances that similar instructions would not be issued in the future.
Also Read: Diljit Dosanjh Enjoys Hot Chocolate & Croissants At THIS 99-YO Spot In Paris
BAPS Responds To The Allegations
Nous comprenons les préoccupations exprimées et les prenons très au sérieux.
Compte tenu de la taille de notre délégation, la visite a été organisée en coordination avec les équipes de la tour Eiffel, au début des horaires habituels d’ouverture, afin de limiter autant que… pic.twitter.com/gyiwzmh6Jv
— BAPS Mandir Swaminarayan Hindou de Paris (@BAPSParis) September 7, 2026
BAPS, meanwhile, said it had arranged the visit with the Eiffel Tower team at the start of normal opening hours to minimise disruption to other visitors in Paris. The organisation said it took the concerns seriously and apologised for any distress or inconvenience caused. It also said that, to its knowledge, no one was prevented from accessing the monument and reiterated its commitment to mutual respect.
Paris Mayor Emmanuel Grégoire described the reported conditions as unacceptable and announced an investigation into the matter. Other French political leaders have also spoken out, highlighting the country’s commitment to gender equality and equal treatment in public spaces.
The controversy comes shortly after the inauguration of a BAPS Hindu temple near Paris, an event linked to the delegation’s visit to France. Authorities are now expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the Eiffel Tower visit and the decisions made by its management.
Also Read: Down With Fever, Preity Zinta Receives Kadhi-Chawal From A Mom Running A Business In Paris
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/Thitiphan Pakseesuwan
FAQs
Why was the Eiffel Tower closed in Paris?
The Eiffel Tower was temporarily closed on September 7 after staff went on strike over allegations that female employees were asked to step away from their workstations during a private visit by a Hindu religious delegation.
What happened during the BAPS visit to the Eiffel Tower?
According to staff representatives, some female employees were reportedly asked to leave their posts or avoid certain areas while the delegation was visiting. In some places, male employees allegedly replaced them.
Did the Eiffel Tower reopen?
The tower was closed for the day on September 7 due to the staff protest, with reports stating that it was expected to reopen normally on September 8.