OYO, the popular Indian hospitality chain, has implemented a new check-in policy for its partner hotels in Meerut, effective this year. Under the updated guidelines, unmarried couples will no longer be allowed to check into OYO hotels, including those booking online.
The new policy mandates that couples must provide valid proof of their relationship when checking in. OYO has given its partner hotels the discretion to reject bookings based on local social norms and their own judgment, allowing each hotel to decide how to enforce the rule.
The move comes after feedback from civil society groups, particularly in Meerut, which have called for stricter regulations regarding unmarried couples staying in hotels. Reports indicate that residents in other cities have also petitioned for similar changes.
Pawas Sharma, Region Head of OYO North India, stated, “OYO is committed to maintaining safe and responsible hospitality practices. While we respect personal freedoms, we also recognize our responsibility to work with law enforcement and local communities where we operate. We will continue to review this policy and its impact.”
This new initiative is part of OYO’s broader strategy to shift perceptions and position itself as a safe, family-friendly brand, appealing to a diverse range of customers including students, business travelers, and religious groups. The company aims to foster trust and loyalty by promoting longer stays and repeat bookings.
As part of its nationwide efforts to enhance hospitality safety, OYO has also introduced programs like joint seminars with police and hotel partners on secure hospitality, blacklisting hotels involved in unethical activities, and taking action against unauthorized properties using the OYO brand.
OYO’s decision in Meerut may serve as a test case, with the potential for it to be rolled out to other cities depending on feedback from its operations.
