In a move that has stirred significant debate, OYO, one of India’s largest hospitality platforms, has introduced a new policy empowering partner hotels to deny check-ins to unmarried couples. The policy, currently being enforced in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, comes after feedback from local communities and law enforcement urging stricter measures in hotel bookings.
What’s Changing?
Under the revised guidelines, unmarried couples booking rooms at OYO properties will now need to present valid proof of their relationship at check-in, even if the booking was confirmed online. Additionally, OYO’s partner hotels have been granted discretion to decline bookings based on “local social sensibility” and their judgment. This move is aimed at addressing local concerns and fostering a more family-friendly environment in certain markets.
The decision has drawn mixed reactions, with critics raising concerns about privacy and individual freedoms, while supporters argue it reflects cultural sensitivities and enhances safety.
Why the New Rule?
OYO’s decision comes after mounting pressure from civil society groups and local residents, particularly in Meerut, who voiced concerns about the influx of unmarried couples at hotels. According to Pawas Sharma, Region Head, OYO North India, the company is trying to strike a delicate balance between respecting personal liberties and adhering to community sensibilities.
“OYO is committed to upholding safe and responsible hospitality practices. While we respect individual freedoms and personal liberty, we also recognize our responsibility to listen to and work with law enforcement and civil society groups in the micro-markets we operate in,” said Sharma.
The company emphasized that the policy will be reviewed periodically, taking into account its impact on both customers and partner hotels.
OYO’s Broader Mission: A Family-Oriented Brand
OYO’s latest policy is part of a broader effort to reposition itself as a family-friendly and trusted hospitality brand. The company aims to cater not just to couples, but also to families, business travelers, students, religious groups, and solo adventurers.
To further this mission, OYO has launched several nationwide initiatives, including:
- Joint seminars with law enforcement and hotel partners on safe hospitality practices.
- Blacklisting hotels accused of unethical practices.
- Legal action against unauthorized properties misusing OYO’s brand name.
These steps, according to OYO, are designed to enhance trust, ensure customer safety, and encourage longer stays by offering a reliable and responsible hospitality experience.
Expansion to Other Cities
While the policy is currently limited to Meerut, OYO plans to extend the rule to other cities based on feedback and demand from local communities. The company believes that addressing community concerns is key to building customer loyalty and solidifying its position as a trusted brand in India’s competitive hospitality sector.
Balancing Privacy and Responsibility
The policy has sparked a larger debate about privacy vs. community norms. Critics argue that requiring proof of relationship infringes on personal privacy and autonomy, potentially alienating a significant portion of OYO’s customer base. Supporters, however, see it as a necessary step to curb misuse of hotel rooms and foster a safer environment for families and legitimate travelers.
As OYO navigates this delicate balance, it remains to be seen how customers in Meerut and beyond will react to the new policy. The hospitality giant’s willingness to review and revise its approach may ultimately determine the success of this initiative in the long run.