Eiffel Tower faces investigation after female staff removed for Hindu group visit
An internal investigation has been launched after female employees at the Eiffel Tower were removed from their posts and replaced by male colleagues during a private visit by a Hindu religious group, prompting staff to go on strike, BBC reports.
A delegation of around 100 people from the Hindu organization BAPS visited the Paris landmark on Sept. 5. The group strictly separates men and women, including during religious activities and when entering buildings.
Staff representatives said female employees were asked to leave their workplaces and instructed not to enter or cross certain areas while the delegation was present.
The decision prompted outrage among employees, with union representative Diane Davoine saying the women felt "humiliated." Staff went on strike on Sept. 7, delaying the tower's opening.
Ariel Weil, president of the company that operates the Eiffel Tower, said managers had been "a bit overzealous" in accommodating the group's request without considering whether it was appropriate.
He called the incident "totally shocking and unacceptable" and said an internal investigation would determine who was responsible and ensure it "never happens again."
BAPS apologized "for any pain or inconvenience caused" and said it believed in "the universal values of mutual respect and service."
The group was in Paris to consecrate its first major temple in France.