The iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris was temporarily closed on Monday after employees went on strike over a dispute involving the deployment of female staff during a visit by around 100 members of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS). According to reports, concerns were raised after some female employees were allegedly asked to move from their positions ahead of the delegation’s visit so that male staff could be deployed instead. The reported request left several female employees upset, with staff members considering the move discriminatory and insulting. The issue escalated on Monday when employees held a meeting and discussed the matter with management. After talks reportedly failed to resolve the dispute, workers went on strike, resulting in the temporary closure of the Eiffel Tower t
o visitors. The management of the Eiffel Tower later acknowledged that the request concerning the deployment of female employees should not have been accepted. The controversy has drawn attention to workplace equality and the treatment of female security and other staff members at one of France’s most recognisable landmarks. The dispute is linked to the BAPS delegation’s visit, although the reported concerns centre on the decision to accommodate a request regarding staff deployment. Employees have demanded clarity and accountability over the decision and its implementation. The closure caused disruption for visitors who had planned to visit the landmark. The Eiffel Tower management and employee representatives are expected to continue discussions to resolve the dispute and restore normal operations.