The manager of the company responsible for managing the Eiffel Tower has announced his resignation after an incident in which women staff were removed during a visit by a Hindu religious group. The French government and local officials have expressed concern over the violation of gender equality.
The company that manages the Eiffel Tower, Société d’exploitation de la Tour Eiffel, announced on Tuesday that its chief, Patrick Branco Ruivo, will step down at the end of the year. This decision comes in response to a controversy that erupted in September when women staff were removed during a visit by a Hindu religious group, Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS).
According to reports by AFP, an internal probe found 'operational flaws and shortcomings' in organizing the visit that led to the 'unacceptable' removal of women staff. This decision sparked criticism from French politicians across the spectrum, who argued that the country’s values regarding gender equality were being compromised.
In response to the controversy, BAPS Paris, the religious group in question, released a statement apologizing for 'any pain or inconvenience caused' and expressing respect for the concerns raised. It maintains that at no point was anyone prevented from accessing the Eiffel Tower. However, it also stated that due to the size of its delegation, the visit was arranged in conjunction with the Eiffel Tower team at the start of normal opening hours to avoid disrupting or inconveniencing others.
The operating company's board chairman, Ariel Weil, has demanded the creation of a 'dedicated protocol department' and the implementation of new measures and training programs to promote gender equality. Paris Mayor Emmanuel Grégoire has promised an investigation into the matter and stated that conditions being placed on Eiffel Tower staffers cannot be accepted.
On September 6, BAPS Paris consecrated its first major temple in France, located in the suburbs of Paris. Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the ceremony virtually.
Source:
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