The minister, M Saravanan, warned employers against instructing their workers to take annual or unpaid leave during this period.

“This is in line with the orders and statements issued by the ministry during the movement control order in March. However, employers may discuss with workers on any actions taken in both their interests.”

He said that those who require further information may contact the labour department at 03-88862352, 03-88862409 or 03-8889111.

The government had announced that employees involved in management and supervision work in the industrial and public sectors must work from home throughout the CMCO period. The work from home order begins today.

It also said 10% of senior staff from the finance, administration, legal and IT departments in a company were allowed to work in their offices from 10am to 2pm for a maximum of three days a week.