
OYO, a leading travel booking platform, has introduced a new check-in policy in Meerut, which bans unmarried couples from checking in at its partner hotels. The policy is effective immediately and may extend to other cities based on feedback.
This change follows requests from civil society groups and local residents in Meerut, as well as from other cities, urging OYO to address the issue. In a statement, OYO said, "We have received feedback from civil society groups, especially in Meerut, calling for action to address this matter. Additionally, residents in several other cities have petitioned to disallow unmarried couples from checking in at OYO hotels."
As part of the new policy, couples are required to provide proof of their relationship, such as a marriage certificate, to complete a booking.
OYO has stated that this shift aligns with local cultural sensitivities and aims to create a safer environment for various groups of travelers, including families, students, business travelers, religious individuals, and solo travelers.
However, the policy has sparked debate, with critics arguing that it marks a setback for OYO's previously progressive stance on inclusivity. The company has indicated that the policy may be implemented in other cities depending on further feedback.