In a significant policy update, OYO, one of India's leading hotel booking platforms, has announced that unmarried couples will no longer be allowed to check in at its partner properties in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. The rule, part of an initiative to address community concerns, aims to foster safe and responsible hospitality practices while aligning with local social norms.
Pawas Sharma, Region Head of OYO North India, said,
"We are committed to upholding safe and responsible hospitality practices. While respecting personal freedoms, we must also collaborate with local communities and law enforcement to ensure a harmonious operating environment."
The updated policy requires all married couples to provide valid proof of relationship during the check-in process. This applies to online bookings as well. Hotel partners have been granted the discretion to deny bookings to unmarried couples based on prevailing local cultural sensitivities.
This change follows repeated demands from civil society groups in Meerut, urging OYO to regulate accommodations for unmarried couples. The company has clarified that the initiative is aimed at fostering an environment suitable for families, business travelers, students, religious pilgrims, and solo travelers.
OYO revealed that it is considering extending this policy to other locations, depending on the feedback from its pilot implementation in Meerut. Similar petitions from residents in other cities highlight growing concerns about the perceived misuse of hotel accommodations.
As part of its broader initiative, OYO is collaborating with local authorities to ensure safe hospitality practices. Key actions include:
Joint Seminars: Hosting workshops with police and hotel partners to educate on ethical hospitality standards.
Blacklisting Hotels: Strict action against hotels involved in unethical or immoral activities.
Combating Misuse: Taking legal steps against unauthorized establishments misusing OYO branding.
OYO’s decision reflects its dedication to addressing community feedback while balancing the need for personal freedom with local sensibilities. The company’s proactive measures are expected to redefine its image as a trusted and family-friendly accommodation provider.
The decision has sparked conversations about the balance between personal choice and societal norms in India’s hospitality industry. By piloting this initiative in Meerut, OYO has taken a bold step toward addressing local concerns while setting an example for the industry.
OYO’s new policy, piloted in Meerut, marks a significant shift in India’s hospitality landscape. By addressing community feedback and aligning with local sensibilities, the company is taking steps to redefine its image as a trusted platform for safe and responsible accommodations.
While the policy may face criticism for restricting personal freedoms, OYO has emphasized its commitment to fostering a harmonious operating environment in collaboration with local communities and authorities.
As this initiative unfolds, it could set a precedent for other cities and the broader hospitality industry. Balancing individual rights with cultural norms remains a delicate challenge, but OYO’s proactive approach demonstrates its dedication to evolving in response to societal expectations.
Ultimately, this move underscores OYO’s commitment to creating a secure and inclusive experience for all its guests, ensuring that its partner hotels cater to the diverse needs of families, professionals, and solo travelers alike.