Eiffel Tower Shut Over BAPS Row: Women Staff Allegedly Sidelined, France Erupts In Protest

The Eiffel Tower was temporarily shut after employees staged a protest over allegations that female staff were asked to step aside during a private visit by a nearly 100-member BAPS delegation. French politicians condemned the reported incident, with Paris authorities promising an investigation. BAPS has said it takes the concerns seriously and maintained that the visit was organised in coordination with Eiffel Tower authorities. The group also said no one was denied access and apologised to anyone who felt hurt or inconvenienced. India’s Ministry of External Affairs has also distanced itself from the controversy. The delegation was in Paris for the inauguration of a major Hindu temple.