OYO Hotels’ New Policy on Unmarried Couples Sparks Debate in Meerut

The OYO Hotels chain has introduced new check-in directives permitting partner hotels in Meerut to decline bookings from unmarried couples. This policy is currently limited to the city of Meerut, located approximately an hour's drive from India's capital, New Delhi. The hospitality group cited feedback from local civil society groups as the primary reason for this decision. While the policy is not nationwide, there is potential for its extension to other locations depending on the response it receives.

Pawas Sharma, OYO's regional head for North India, addressed the media following the announcement of these new directives. He emphasized that the initiative aligns with OYO's commitment to maintaining safe and responsible hospitality practices. This move aims to address concerns raised by civil society groups in Meerut, reflecting a localized approach rather than a blanket policy across all OYO establishments.

"OYO is committed to upholding safe and responsible hospitality practices." – Pawas Sharma

The new policy specifically targets partner hotels in Meerut, making it clear that this is not a company-wide directive applicable to all OYO hotels. By restricting the policy to a single city, OYO is testing the waters and gauging public reaction before considering broader implementation. The company operates a budget hotel booking platform known for flexibility and affordability, making this policy shift a notable deviation from its typical business model.

Meerut's proximity to New Delhi adds an interesting dimension to this development, as the region might experience different social dynamics compared to the capital. The feedback from local civil society groups in Meerut played a crucial role in shaping this policy, highlighting the importance of community input in business decisions.

Although the response from patrons and partners will ultimately determine the policy's future trajectory, OYO remains vigilant in its commitment to responsible hospitality. This initiative reflects an effort to balance societal norms with business operations, ensuring that the company's practices resonate with local community values.