Unmarried couples no longer welcomed in THIS city, OYO changes check-in rules

OYO, one of India’s leading travel booking platforms, has announced a new check-in policy for its partner hotels, beginning in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. As part of this policy, unmarried couples will no longer be allowed to check-in. The updated guidelines require all couples to present valid proof of their relationship during check-in, even if the booking was made online.

The company has also given its partner hotels the authority to decline couple bookings at their discretion, keeping local cultural and social norms in mind. OYO stated that this change reflects its effort to address concerns raised by civil society groups, especially in Meerut, where the feedback was particularly strong. The policy aims to align with local sentiments and provide a hospitality experience that respects community values.

According to a statement by Pawas Sharma, Region Head of OYO North India, the company is committed to ensuring safe and responsible hospitality practices. He noted that while OYO respects individual freedoms and personal liberties, it also recognizes the need to work collaboratively with law enforcement and civil society groups in the areas where it operates. The policy will be reviewed periodically to gauge its effectiveness and impact.

The initiative is part of OYO’s broader strategy to redefine its image as a family-friendly and secure brand. The company aims to attract families, students, business travelers, solo travelers, and religious tourists by creating a safe and trustworthy hospitality environment.

In addition to the new check-in rules, OYO has launched several measures across India to promote responsible hospitality. These include organizing seminars with police and hotel partners, blacklisting hotels involved in unethical practices, and taking action against unauthorized establishments misusing OYO’s branding.

Depending on the feedback from Meerut, OYO may consider expanding this policy to other cities in the future. By introducing such measures, OYO hopes to strengthen customer trust, encourage longer stays, and promote repeat bookings.