BY PC Bureau
Acting as a moral police force instead of a hospitality partner, OYO, a prominent travel booking platform, has implemented a controversial new check-in policy for partner hotels in Meerut, barring unmarried couples from staying without valid proof of relationship.
The policy, effective immediately, gives partner hotels the discretion to decline bookings, aligning with local social sentiments, according to the company. Incidentally, no Indian law prohibits unmarried couples from staying in hotels. But OYO would use its discretionary power to enforce such provisions, which could be challenged in the court of law.
The directive, which applies to all bookings—including online reservations—has been rolled out in Meerut. Based on feedback, the initiative may expand to other cities, sources familiar with the matter stated.
unmarried couples will no longer be welcome to check in,OYO changes check-in policy. pic.twitter.com/VtvFRVKGQt
— Indian Infra Report (@Indianinfoguide) January 5, 2025
OYO claims the change is in response to feedback from civil society groups and local residents who expressed concerns about allowing unmarried couples to check in. Similar petitions have been received from other cities, signaling a potential broader rollout.
OYO’s Commitment to Responsible Hospitality
Pawas Sharma, Region Head for OYO North India, emphasized the brand’s dedication to safe and responsible hospitality:
“While we respect personal freedoms, we also have a duty to collaborate with law enforcement and civil society in our operational areas. This policy will be reviewed periodically to assess its impact.”
OYO views the initiative as part of a broader effort to rebrand itself as a family-friendly and trustworthy hospitality provider. The company aims to attract families, business travelers, and solo adventurers while improving customer trust and loyalty through longer stays and repeat bookings.
In addition to the new policy, OYO is conducting joint seminars with police and hotel partners on safe hospitality practices, blacklisting properties linked to illicit activities, and taking action against unauthorized use of its branding.
Despite these measures, it’s worth noting that no Indian law prohibits unmarried couples from staying in hotels. Ultimately, the decision to allow such bookings rests with individual hotel operators.
