Unmarried Couples Banned In Hotels? Oyo's Latest Check-in Policy - See Update

Travel booking giant OYO has introduced a new check-in policy for its partner hotels, starting with Meerut, which restricts unmarried couples from checking in. The updated guidelines, which came into effect this year, require couples to provide valid proof of their relationship at the time of check-in, including for online bookings.

Re-defined Policy to Give Hotel Discretion

Under the new policy, OYO has given the discretion to its partner hotels, on not allowing unmarried couples to book stays, as has been done in the past, due to social sensibilities in some places. The company said, "All couples will be asked to present valid proof of relation at the time of check-in, including for online bookings."

It will initially be launched in Meerut but can expand across more cities as people respond. According to sources in the policy, "OYO has been asked by civil society groups in the past, particularly in Meerut, to do something about it."

Feedback from Civil Society Groups

OYO is committed to safe and responsible hospitality practices. While we respect individual freedoms and personal liberty, we also recognize our responsibility to listen to and work with the law enforcement and civil society groups in the micro markets we operate in," said Pawas Sharma, Region Head of OYO North India. "We will continue to review this policy and its impact periodically."

Safe and Family-Friendly Hospitality Focus

The initiative is part of OYO's larger programme for rebranding itself as a safe and responsible choice for families, students, business travelers, religious visitors, and solo travelers. The company seeks to project the image of family-friendly hospitality to enhance customer trust and loyalty with longer stays and repeat bookings.

Initiatives for Safe Hospitality

OYO has launched several pan-India initiatives to improve safety. These include joint seminars with police and hotel partners on safe hospitality practices, blacklisting hotels involved in immoral activities, and taking action against unauthorized hotels misusing OYO branding. The company continues to prioritize creating a secure environment for its diverse customer base.