Unmarried couples are no longer welcome, OYO is changing the check-in rules
Travel booking major OYO has introduced a new check-in policy for its partner hotels, starting in Meerut, introducing guidelines that come into force this year where unmarried couples will no longer be welcome to check-in.
Under the revised policy, all couples will be asked to present valid proof of relationship at the time of check-in, including bookings made online.
OYO has empowered its partner hotels to reject bookings for couples based on their discretion, subject to location sensitivity, the company said.
OYO has given instructions to its partner hotels in Meerut to ensure this immediately. Based on the initial response, the company may expand this to more cities, said people familiar with the policy change.
“OYO has received feedback in the past from civil society organizations especially in Meerut urging action to address this issue. Additionally, residents from a few other cities have petitioned not to allow unmarried couples to enter OYO hotels,” it said.
Pawas Sharma, Regional Head, OYO North India, told PTI, “OYO is committed to maintaining safe and responsible hospitality practices.
While we respect individual freedom and personal freedom, we also recognize our responsibility to listen and work with law enforcement and civil society in the small markets in which we operate.
We will continue to review this policy and its impact from time to time.”
The program is part of OYO’s plan to change its outdated perception and promote itself as a brand that provides a safe experience for families, students, businesses, religious and solo travelers, the company said.
Additionally, the program aims to encourage longer stays and repeat bookings, improving customer trust and loyalty.
OYO has initiated pan-India initiatives such as joint conferences on safe hospitality with the police and hotel partners, blacklisting hotels that are reported to be promoting immoral activities and initiating action against unauthorized hotels using the OYO logo, it added.
