OYO has introduced a new policy in Meerut that prohibits unmarried couples from checking into its partner hotels. Couples will be required to provide proof of their relationship, and hotels have been given the discretion to reject bookings based on local social norms. This decision follows feedback from civil society groups and residents urging action on the issue. OYO aims to position itself as a safe and responsible brand, promoting trust among families, students, business travelers, and other groups. The policy will be reviewed periodically, with the possibility of being extended to other cities based on feedback.
A 70-year-old farmer from Haryana, Subash Chand, has officially ended his 44-year marriage to Santosh Kumari after an 18-year legal battle. The divorce, finalized with a Rs 3.1 crore alimony settlement, saw Chand sell agricultural land, crops, and provide gold and silver ornaments worth Rs 40 lakh to meet the terms. The Punjab and Haryana High Court mediated the agreement, ensuring that Kumari and their children would have no further claims on Chand's assets after his death. The marriage, which began in 1980, had been strained for years before their separation in 2006.
Students at Dhaka University staged a unique protest by blasting Sapna Choudhary’s hit Haryanvi song Teri Aakhya Ka Yo Kajal outside the Vice Chancellor’s office. The protest was sparked by complaints from female students about noise pollution near their hostel, which they allege was ignored by the university administration. Using loudspeakers to create the same disturbance they had experienced, the students drew attention with their unconventional form of protest, earning praise online for their creativity.
A government school teacher in Bihar’s Begusarai was kidnapped and forcibly married in a practice known as 'Pakadwa Vivah.' Avnish Kumar, the victim, alleges he was abducted by a group of men and coerced into marrying Gunjan, who claims they had been in a relationship for four years. A viral video showed Avnish resisting the marriage, and he later reported being physically assaulted during the ordeal. While Gunjan insists the marriage was consensual, Avnish denies any romantic involvement and accuses her of harassment. The case has drawn attention to the controversial practice, with police now investigating the incident.
Telugu superstar Allu Arjun, released from jail on Saturday in connection with the Sandhya Theatre stampede case, expressed his respect for the law and pledged full cooperation with authorities. Speaking to the media outside his home, he reassured fans, saying, "I am a law-abiding citizen, I respect the law, and I will cooperate." Arjun also extended condolences to the family affected by the incident, emphasizing that the tragedy was "out of my personal control." He further thanked his fans for their support during the challenging time. The case continues to unfold as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the stampede.