New Delhi. Hotel booking company OYO has implemented new check-in rules for its associated hotels. According to the new rules, unmarried couples will no longer be given rooms in OYO hotels. That is, only husband and wife will be able to take a room in the hotel. This rule has been implemented first in Meerut. Based on the impact and feedback of this rule, it can be implemented in other cities as well. Under the revised policy, all couples will be asked to provide valid proof of their relationship at the time of 'check-in'. This also includes bookings made online.

The company said that OYO has given its partner hotels the right to reject bookings of unmarried couples at their discretion in keeping with local social sensitivities. OYO has directed its partner hotels to implement this rule in Meerut with immediate effect. The company says that civic groups and local residents of Meerut and some other cities had demanded OYO to stop unmarried couples from checking in.

Respect for individual freedom
Oyo North India regional head Pavas Sharma told PTI, "Oyo is committed to maintaining safe and responsible hospitality practices. We respect individual freedom, but at the same time we also recognize our responsibility to listen to and work with law enforcement and civil society groups in these markets."

The company will keep reviewing this policy of not providing check-in facility to unmarried couples and its impact from time to time. OYO said that this new rule is part of presenting the brand as a safe and reliable option for families, students, business tourists, religious tourists and solo travelers.