OYO, the popular hotel and travel booking platform, has introduced a controversial new check-in policy for its partner hotels in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. The updated guidelines, which are effective immediately, prohibit unmarried couples from checking into OYO hotels.
Under the new policy, all couples—whether they have made online reservations or not—must provide valid proof of their relationship upon check-in. This move, aimed at addressing concerns raised by civil society groups in the region, marks a significant shift in the company’s approach to guest bookings.
The ban will initially apply to hotels in Meerut, based on local feedback, with OYO considering an expansion of the policy to other cities depending on how it is received. The company has instructed its partner hotels in Meerut to implement the changes immediately.
OYO has reportedly received multiple requests from residents and civil society organizations, especially in Meerut, urging the platform to take action against unmarried couples staying in its hotels. Some other cities have also reportedly expressed support for the policy.
Pawas Sharma, OYO’s Region Head for North India, stated that the policy is part of the company’s broader initiative to transform its image and align itself with the needs of families, students, business travelers, and religious tourists. OYO has also been focusing on safety initiatives, including hosting seminars with the police and hotel partners on safe hospitality practices and taking action against unauthorized hotels using its branding.
The new policy has sparked debate about privacy and individual freedoms, with some questioning its impact on OYO’s reputation as a hospitality provider.
