A hotel in the United States, recently purchased by a group of Indian entrepreneurs, has found itself at the centre of a political controversy after its staff refused to accept reservations from federal immigration enforcement officers. The incident at the Hampton Inn by Hilton in Lakeville, Minnesota, has drawn sharp criticism and prompted investigations, putting the spotlight on the hotel's ownership and policies.
Indian Ownership and the Controversial Refusal
Public records reveal that the hotel was purchased last year for $15 million by four Indian partners: Parmjit Singh, Amanpreet Hundal, Karandeep Nagra, and Mohinderjeet Kaur. The acquisition was made through a Limited Liability Company (LLC) registered with the Minnesota secretary of state.
The dispute erupted when emails from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) were shared on social media. These emails alleged that staff at the hotel explicitly told federal officers their bookings would not be honoured. One email stated, "We have noticed an influx of GOV reservations made today that have been for DHS, and we are not allowing any ICE or immigration agents to stay at our property." Another message instructed, "Please pass on this info to your coworkers that we are not allowing any immigration agents to house on our property."
Corporate Response and Apologies
The global hospitality chain Hilton was quick to distance itself from the actions of the independently owned franchise. A Hilton spokesperson told FOX Business that the hotel's actions do not reflect Hilton’s values. "Hilton hotels serve as welcoming places for all. This hotel is independently owned and operated, and the actions referenced are not reflective of Hilton values," the spokesperson clarified.
The spokesperson further confirmed that the hotel staff had apologised, stating, "We have been in direct contact with the hotel, and they have apologised for the actions of their team, which was not in keeping with their policies. They have taken immediate action to resolve this matter. Hilton’s position is clear: Our properties are open to everyone and we do not tolerate any form of discrimination."
The management company operating the hotel, Everpeak Hospitality, also issued a statement. They affirmed their commitment to welcoming all guests and following brand standards and laws, adding, "We do not discriminate against any individuals or agencies and apologise to those impacted."
Broader Policy Context and Ongoing Fallout
This incident highlights a long-standing policy stance by Hilton. Back in 2020, the company publicly opposed the use of its properties in connection with immigration detention and reinforced this position across its US hotels.
The refusal has sparked strong political reactions. DHS assistant secretary Tricia McLaughlin criticised Hilton, alleging, "Hilton has launched a coordinated campaign in Minneapolis to REFUSE service to DHS law enforcement. When officers attempted to book rooms using official government emails and rates, Hilton Hotels maliciously CANCELLED their reservations. This is UNACCEPTABLE."
The matter remains under active investigation by Hilton, which has stated it is working with the hotel to ensure compliance with its non-discrimination policies. The situation underscores the complex intersection of private business ownership, corporate brand policies, and highly charged political issues in the United States.
