The chief executive officer of the organization managing the Eiffel Tower, Patrick Branco Ruivo, has announced his resignation following significant criticism regarding the treatment of female employees during a visit by a Hindu religious group.
Ruivo, who has held the position since 2018, is set to leave the role at the end of this year, according to a statement released by the company, SETE. An internal investigation revealed that there were “operational flaws and shortcomings” in the planning of the visit, which resulted in the “unacceptable” decision to replace female staff with their male counterparts.
This incident occurred when a delegation of approximately 100 individuals from the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) visited the iconic structure earlier this month. BAPS, which follows beliefs rooted in the 18th Century, practices strict gender separation during their activities, including at temple entrances.
Details of the Incident
During the visit, it was reported that the Hindu group requested arrangements be made to minimize “interactions with women.” SETE acknowledged that such conditions should not have been accepted, as they led to the removal of female staff from their roles.
A representative of the staff union expressed that the female employees felt “humiliated” as they were asked to leave their posts. Furthermore, it was noted that female staff were prohibited from accessing certain areas while the delegation was present, prompting outrage among workers.
Reactions and Consequences
The incident sparked a strike among employees at the Eiffel Tower, leading to its temporary closure, as staff voiced their discontent. Prominent political figures also condemned the actions taken during the visit. Yaël Braun-Pivet, the President of France’s National Assembly, firmly stated that women should not be forced to step aside to accommodate the demands of overseas visitors.
Emmanuel Gregoire, the Socialist Mayor of Paris, labeled the decision as “absurd, unjust, and unacceptable,” and demanded two investigations into the matter. In response to the backlash, Ariel Weil, the chair of SETE, announced plans for implementing measures and training aimed at promoting gender equality within the organization.
Apology and Group Background
BAPS issued an apology for any distress caused by the incident, reaffirming their commitment to the principles of mutual respect and service. The organization describes itself as a “spiritual, volunteer-driven fellowship” focused on societal improvement through Hindu values, maintaining temples in major cities worldwide.
BAPS draws its teachings from the philosophy of Lord Swaminarayan, an 18th-Century ascetic viewed by followers as an incarnation of Vishnu. While the group claims that gender segregation is intended for the welfare of women, critics argue that such outdated beliefs have no place in contemporary society and that excluding women under the guise of religious practice is inherently discriminatory.
