Patrick Branco Ruivo, chief executive officer of the Société d’Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel (SETE), will step down at the end of 2026 following an independent investigation into operational failures during a Hindu religious delegation’s visit on Sept. 5. The inquiry revealed “a series of operational lapses and deficiencies” that resulted in female staff members being removed from the visit.
Investigation Reveals Protocol Failures During BAPS Delegation Visit
The controversy emerged after staff at the 330-метровата landmark reported that female employees received orders to leave their work stations while members of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) passed through the monument. Trade union representatives noted that roughly 100 people participated in the private visit, which included Hindu monks bound by strict rules of celibacy. These monks avoid physical contact with women and restrict personal interaction or attention toward women. Management arranged the tour to limit contact between the monks and female employees, ensuring only male staff accompanied the group.
SETE characterized the removal of female workers as an “unacceptable situation.” The independent audit found flaws not only in the specific organization of this visit but also in how protocol tours are planned and managed overall. Paris Mayor Emmanuel Grégoire demanded a full clarification of the incident, meeting with union representatives and SETE management to review the circumstances and reiterate operational principles for city-managed sites.
Union Strikes and Political Backlash Follow Staff Removal
The incident triggered a protest from workers. The Eiffel Tower closed on Sept. 7 due to a strike before reopening the following day. Union officials labeled the instructions unacceptable and demanded that management prevent similar treatment of female staff in the future. BAPS denied that the visit involved gender-based discrimination. The organization told the Associated Press that coordination relied strictly on logistical considerations to ensure a smooth visit for both staff and visitors.
The event gained political resonance due to ties between BAPS and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi alongside India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. According to CBS, the delegation visited France in connection with celebrations for the opening of a new Hindu temple near Paris, with Modi participating in the opening ceremony via video link. The French newspaper Le Monde reported that the scandal questioned SETE’s management and drew scrutiny toward internal company problems, sparking two separate investigations.
Leadership Departure and New Equality Training Measures
Ruivo has led SETE as general director since November 2018. The company operates as a public enterprise with capital held primarily by Paris. Attracting approximately 7 million visitors annually, the monument faces new administrative requirements following Ruivo’s planned departure. SETE Chairman Ariel Weil requested the introduction of new measures and training focused on gender equality. Ruivo will remain in office through the end of the year until a successor is determined.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Eiffel Tower Management Scandal
Why is SETE Chief Executive Patrick Branco Ruivo stepping down?
Ruivo is leaving his post at the end of 2026 following an independent investigation that uncovered operational gaps and protocol failures during a Sept. 5 visit by a Hindu religious delegation.
What caused the staff protests and closure of the Eiffel Tower?
Female employees were ordered to leave their work stations during a private visit by the BAPS delegation to accommodate monks who observe strict rules of celibacy. This prompted a strike and temporary closure of the landmark on Sept. 7.
How did BAPS respond to the allegations of discrimination?
BAPS denied any gender-based discrimination, stating to the Associated Press that the tour’s coordination was handled purely for logistical reasons to ensure smooth operations.
What changes are being implemented at the monument following the incident?
SETE Chairman Ariel Weil requested new measures and training programs centered on gender equality following the independent review.
Related reading