Eiffel Tower: Investigation into Replacement of Female Staff for Religious Visit
BBC News reports on an investigation launched in France after female staff at the Eiffel Tower were replaced by men for a visit from a Hindu religious group.
Background
On Saturday, a delegation of around 100 people linked to the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) group visited the iconic landmark in Paris. During their visit, "women were asked to leave their places of work" and felt "humiliated," according to a staff union representative, Diane Davoine.
Response and Strike
The tower closed on Monday as staff went on strike to express their outrage. Ariel Weil, president of the company that runs the tower, blamed its managers for being "a bit overzealous" in complying with the request without considering its inappropriateness. He described the incident as "totally shocking and unacceptable."
Internal Investigation
Weil announced an internal investigation to determine who was responsible for the conditions imposed and to ensure such an incident "never happens again." Staff at the monument also reported that female employees were instructed not to access certain areas during the visit.
BAPS Response
In a statement, BAPS said the trip was arranged with the Eiffel Tower team at normal opening hours to avoid disrupting others. They apologized for any inconvenience caused and emphasized their belief in mutual respect and service.
Context and Criticism
BAPS describes itself as a spiritual fellowship dedicated to improving society through Hindu values. It has temples worldwide, including in London, Los Angeles, and Sydney. The group strictly separates men and women, a practice critics argue has no place in modern times and is discriminatory.
Political Condemnation
Politicians in France have also condemned the incident. Yaël Braun-Pivet, president of France’s National Assembly, voiced her outrage at the treatment of female staff.
