Eiffel Tower Shut Down Over Hindu Group Controversy

The iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris was suddenly closed on Monday after workers went on a strike. The controversy erupted after staff members working at the tower were angry because female employees were told to step aside and hide during a private visit by a religious delegation.

As per media reports, a Hindu organisation named Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) has visited the monument with a group of 100 members. During the procession, management allegedly asked female workers to stay out of sight or change their positions.

Some female employees were asked to move away from their regular working spots and male counterparts took their place so the group would not have to deal with women. These restrictions were enforced by the operating company of the tower.

This move has triggered immediate backlash from the workers and also from the general public. Political leaders across France spoke out against the incident very quickly. Top leaders said that in France, no religion or personal belief is allowed to sit above the law or tell women where they can stand.

The BAPS organization meanwhile denied any such request made to the operating company. However, they issued an official apology for the problems caused by this visit. They said they asked for an early morning visit only to manage their huge group of 100 people and avoid crowds for regular tourists.

The Eiffel Tower remained completely shut down to visitors through Monday night while staff continued their protest against the management decision.