Kolkata Techie and Son Denied Accommodation in Noida Hotel Over ‘Bengali’ Identity
Noida, Uttar Pradesh
Incident Overview: A technology professional from New Town, Kolkata, and his 14-year-old son—a national-level skater—were reportedly denied accommodation at Meera Eternity, a hotel in Noida’s Sector 44. The father had booked a two-night stay via OYO Rooms for the purpose of attending a skating championship. Upon arrival, the hotel receptionist allegedly informed them that local police had issued directives prohibiting guests from Bangladesh, Punjab, and Jammu & Kashmir from staying until August 15 due to security concerns. When the father clarified that they were from West Bengal, the receptionist reportedly dismissed this distinction, stating it was “the same thing,” and refused to check them in .
Hotel’s Response: OYO Rooms, the platform through which the booking was made, responded by removing Meera Eternity from its listings and initiating an internal investigation. An OYO spokesperson clarified that the company had not issued any such directives to its partner hotels and does not condone discrimination in any form .
Police Clarification: Noida’s Deputy Commissioner of Police, Yamuna Prasad, stated that there had been no official instruction from the police to hotels to deny accommodation to guests from any specific region or state. While hotels are instructed to verify identification and visa documents for foreign nationals, there is no directive to refuse service to Indian citizens, even those from Bangladesh, if they possess valid documentation .
Broader Context: This incident has sparked discussions about regional discrimination and identity-based profiling. It also highlights the need for clear communication and training among hospitality staff to prevent such occurrences in the future. The father expressed his intention to file a formal complaint with the police regarding the alleged discriminatory treatment.
Conclusion: The refusal of accommodation based on regional identity raises serious concerns about discrimination and the need for inclusive practices in the hospitality industry. It underscores the importance of ensuring that all guests are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their place of origin.
