08/09/2026
The controversy surrounding the new BAPS temple in France — and the reported exclusion of women staff at the Eiffel Tower — should not be framed as an issue with Hinduism or the Indian community as a whole.
BAPS is a specific Hindu organisation and sect, not a representative of all Hindus. Its political associations and reported links to Hindu nationalist networks, alongside allegations concerning labour practices, deserve scrutiny.
Discriminatory practices cannot be justified as “Hindu tradition” which is extremely diverse. It is important not to let this controversy fuel racism, xenophobia or anti-Hindu prejudice. The actions of one organisation should not be used to stigmatise the millions of Hindus and Indians living in France at a time when the far-right is growing in popularity throughout Europe.