Eiffel Tower reopens after row over female staff removal request

The Eiffel Tower reopened to the public on Wednesday following a controversy over a request to limit female staff presence during a visit by a Hindu religious delegation. The iconic Paris monument had temporarily restricted access after organizers of the group's visit asked for minimal interactions with women employees, citing religious observance practices. The closure prompted immediate criticism from visitor groups and civil rights advocates who objected to the accommodation of such restrictions at a public venue. Tower management announced it would not implement the requested gender-based staffing modifications, citing commitments to equal employment principles and non-discrimination policies. The incident reflects broader tensions in Europe regarding religious accommodation requests at cultural institutions. Officials stated the delegation's visit would proceed with standard operational procedures and full female staff participation in all roles.