I would have to say it's inconsistent. Lots of flights via HKG from YVR to India include the hotel. I have had a free night from HKG to SYD via KL on Malaysian but my flights YVR to GIG via LAX on AC and RG don't include a free hotel room.

On the OT, I have found that even with force majeur the rules can be different. I was flying ORD to YEG via MSP by NW. Our flight was delayed take off in ORD for bad weather. By the time I got into MSP I had missed my connection. Everyone else was told to fend for themselves. I was told that because I was an international flight I could get a hotel (Holiday Inn) and meal vouchers ^ .