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Siliguri, April 9 — A hotel in Siliguri has come under heavy criticism following an incident where an unmarried couple was allegedly denied check-in solely because they hailed from different states, despite presenting valid government-issued ID cards and being of legal age.
The couple, both in their mid-twenties, claim they had made a prior reservation at the hotel and had complied with all standard check-in requirements. However, upon arrival, the hotel staff reportedly refused them accommodation after learning that the two were not married and came from separate states.
Speaking to local media, the couple expressed their shock and frustration. “We showed them our Aadhaar cards, and both of us are well above 18. There was no reason for them to deny us a room,” said the man involved. “The staff kept insisting that it was against their ‘policy’ to allow inter-state unmarried couples.”
The incident quickly escalated into a heated argument, drawing the attention of other guests and passersby.Siliguri Video footage of the altercation has since surfaced on social media, sparking a wave of outrage and reigniting debates around moral policing and privacy rights in India.
Several users on social media condemned the hotel’s actions, calling it discriminatory and regressive. “Two consenting adults with valid ID should not have to face such harassment,” one user tweeted.Siliguri
Legal experts have pointed out that there is no law in India prohibiting unmarried couples from staying together in hotels. “As long as both individuals are adults and have valid identification, hotels cannot legally refuse accommodation based on their relationship status or regional background,” said Advocate Priya Sen, a legal expert in civil rights.
The hotel management has yet to release an official statement, though sources suggest they are reviewing internal policies in light of the backlash.
Consumer rights activists have called for stricter regulations and better training for hotel staff to prevent such incidents in the future. “It’s time we move past outdated moral judgments and ensure hospitality norms are inclusive and respectful,” said Rakesh Dutta, a representative of a local travel and tourism advocacy group.
The couple is reportedly considering legal action, citing emotional distress and violation of their fundamental rights.Siliguri
As the conversation continues online, this incident adds to the growing list of cases where personal liberties are seen to be compromised under the guise of institutional policies — raising important questions about privacy, discrimination, and the role of hospitality businesses in modern India.
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