OYO Introduces New Policy Banning Unmarried Couples from Checking In
New Delhi, 6th January 2025: OYO, a leading travel and hospitality brand, has rolled out a new check-in policy for its partner hotels, initially implemented in Meerut. The new guidelines, which come into effect this year, prohibit unmarried couples from checking into OYO hotels unless they provide valid proof of relationship.
Under the revised policy, couples will now be required to show documentation confirming their relationship status at the time of check-in, including for online bookings. The company has granted its partner hotels the authority to decline bookings made by couples based on their discretion, taking into consideration the local social norms and sensitivities.
“OYO has instructed its partner hotels in Meerut to enforce this new policy immediately,” said a company spokesperson. “Depending on the feedback received from the ground, the company may consider extending this policy to other cities in the future.”
Sources familiar with the policy change shared that OYO had been receiving feedback from civil society groups in Meerut, calling for measures to address concerns regarding unmarried couples checking into the hotels. Additionally, residents from several other cities have also petitioned for similar restrictions to be put in place.
Pawas Sharma, the Regional Head for OYO in North India, stated, “At OYO, we are committed to maintaining safe and responsible hospitality practices. We also acknowledge our responsibility to work closely with law enforcement authorities to ensure compliance with local regulations.”
The implementation of this policy comes as part of OYO’s ongoing efforts to align its operations with the cultural and social expectations of the regions where it operates.
