OYO changes policy in Meerut, no check-ins for unmarried couples; may extend to more cities

NEW DELHI: OYO, an Indian multinational hospitality chain, has issued a new guideline that allows partner hotels to decline check-ins to unmarried couples.

The new policy, which is set to start from Uttar Pradesh's Meerut with immediate effect, has been rolled out to align with "local social sensibility".

Under the revised policy, all couples will be asked to present valid proof of relationship at the time of check-in, including for bookings made online. OYO has empowered its partner hotels' discretion to decline couple bookings based on their judgment, aligning with local social sensibility, news agency PTI reported citing the company.

The company said the decision was taken based on ground feedback and that it looked forward to expanding the measure to more cities.

"OYO has received feedback in the past from civil society groups especially in Meerut urging action to address this issue. Additionally, residents from few other cities have petitioned for disallowing unmarried couples to check-in at OYO hotels," the company told PTI.

"OYO is committed to upholding safe and responsible hospitality practices. While we respect individual freedoms and personal liberty, we also recognise our responsibility to listen to and work with the law enforcement and civil society groups in the micro markets we operate in. We will continue to review this policy and its impact periodically," Pawas Sharma, Region Head, OYO North India, said.

The initiative is a part of OYO's programme to transform outdated perception and project itself as a brand providing safe experience for families, students, business, religious and solo travellers, the company said.

Additionally, the programme aims to encourage longer stays and repeat bookings, enhancing customer trust and loyalty.

OYO has started pan-India initiatives such as joint seminars on safe hospitality with police and hotel partners, blacklisting hotels reportedly promoting immoral activities and initiating actions against unauthorised hotels using OYO branding, it added.