Eiffel Tower Reopens After Controversial Closure

Sep 8, 2026

70 min

Sep 8, 2026 15:32

Eiffel Tower reopens: Why Hindu group visit sparked closure

## Background

The Eiffel Tower in Paris reopened on September 8, 2026, following a temporary closure due to a strike by its workers. The shutdown was triggered by a visit from a Hindu delegation, which led to allegations of gender-based restrictions on female staff.

## Incident Details

The controversy began when around 100 members of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a Hindu organization, visited the landmark. Reports emerged that female employees were instructed to avoid contact with the delegation, with some being replaced by male colleagues. This directive sparked anger among the staff, resulting in a strike on Monday.

## Responses

BAPS stated that any arrangements made were not intended to be gender-specific and apologized for any inconvenience caused. The Eiffel Tower Operating Company (SETE) acknowledged the request to limit interactions with women but admitted such conditions should not have been accepted.

## Investigation

Paris authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. The city's mayor emphasized the importance of gender equality at all public sites. France's Minister for Gender Equality also condemned the alleged restrictions as unacceptable.

## Broader Context

The incident has drawn attention in India, with many questioning the management's decision to agree to such conditions. BAPS was in France for events related to the opening of a new Hindu temple in Paris. The organization operates several major temples worldwide, including in the United States and the UAE.

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