Mon Jan 06 05:30:59 UTC 2025: ## OYO Restricts Unmarried Couples’ Check-ins in Meerut, May Expand Policy Nationwide
**Meerut, India** – Budget hotel chain OYO has implemented a new check-in policy in Meerut, prohibiting unmarried couples from staying in its partner hotels. The policy, effective immediately, requires couples to provide proof of their relationship upon check-in, including for online bookings. Partner hotels have been given the authority to refuse bookings based on their assessment of the situation and local customs.
OYO confirmed the policy change, citing feedback from civil society groups and residents concerned about unmarried couples staying in their hotels. The company’s North India Region Head, Pawas Sharma, stated that OYO aims to balance individual freedoms with its responsibility to maintain safe and responsible hospitality practices and collaborate with local authorities. He emphasized the company’s commitment to providing a safe environment for all guests, including families, students, and business travelers.
The policy’s success in Meerut will determine its potential expansion to other cities across India. This initiative is part of OYO’s broader strategy to enhance its reputation for safety and encourage longer stays and repeat bookings. The company is also engaging in nationwide efforts to improve safety standards, including joint seminars with police and hotel partners, blacklisting hotels involved in illegal activities, and tackling unauthorized use of the OYO brand. The long-term impact of this new policy remains to be seen.
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