New Delhi: OYO, a leading travel booking platform, has implemented a new check-in policy for its partner hotels starting in Meerut. The revised guidelines, effective this year, stipulate that unmarried couples will no longer be allowed to check in.
Under the updated policy, all couples, including those making online bookings, will be required to present valid proof of relationship at the time of check-in. Partner hotels now have the discretion to decline couple bookings based on their judgment, which will take local social sensibilities into account.
The directive has been implemented with immediate effect in Meerut, and based on feedback from local sources, OYO may extend the policy to other cities, according to individuals familiar with the changes.
"OYO has received feedback from civil society groups in Meerut, urging action on this issue, along with petitions from residents in other cities advocating for restrictions on unmarried couples checking in," said sources.
Pawas Sharma, Region Head, OYO North India, commented, "OYO is committed to maintaining safe and responsible hospitality practices. While we respect individual freedoms and personal liberties, we also acknowledge our responsibility to collaborate with law enforcement and civil society groups in the markets we serve. We will periodically review this policy and its impact."
The change is part of OYO’s broader strategy to reshape its image and position itself as a brand offering safe experiences for families, students, business travelers, religious tourists, and solo visitors. The company aims to promote longer stays and encourage repeat bookings, thus enhancing customer trust and loyalty.
OYO is also undertaking pan-India initiatives, such as joint seminars on safe hospitality with law enforcement and hotel partners, blacklisting hotels allegedly involved in immoral activities, and taking action against unauthorized hotels using the OYO brand, the company said.
With PTI inputs