OYO, a leading travel booking platform, has introduced a significant change to its check-in policy for partner hotels, starting with those in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. Under the new guidelines, unmarried couples will no longer be allowed to check in, effective immediately.
Details of the New Policy
The updated policy requires all couples to present valid proof of their relationship at the time of check-in, including for online bookings. This change comes as OYO empowers its partner hotels to exercise discretion in accepting couple bookings, aligning with local social norms and sensibilities.
Pawas Sharma, Region Head of OYO North India, stated that the company is committed to promoting safe and responsible hospitality. He acknowledged the feedback received from civil society groups and residents in Meerut urging action on this issue. “While we respect individual freedoms and personal liberties, we also recognize our responsibility to collaborate with law enforcement and civil society groups in the areas we serve,” he said.
Background and Rationale
The decision to implement this policy follows requests from various civil society organizations in Meerut and petitions from residents in other cities advocating for restrictions on unmarried couples checking into hotels. OYO aims to reshape its image as a brand that prioritizes safety for families, students, business travelers, religious visitors, and solo guests.
The company plans to monitor feedback from this initial rollout in Meerut and may consider expanding the policy to additional cities based on its effectiveness.
OYO’s Broader Initiatives
In addition to the new check-in rules, OYO is launching nationwide initiatives aimed at enhancing safety and trust within the hospitality sector. These include joint seminars on safe hospitality practices with local police and hotel partners, blacklisting hotels accused of promoting immoral activities, and taking action against unauthorized establishments misusing OYO’s brand.
Conclusion
As OYO implements these new guidelines, it marks a shift in how the company approaches couple bookings. The move has sparked discussions about individual freedoms versus societal norms in the hospitality industry. As the policy takes effect in Meerut, many will be watching closely to see how it impacts customer experiences and whether it will be adopted in other regions across India.
Disclaimer: This article is based on reports regarding OYO’s new check-in policy and may be subject to updates as more information becomes available.
