MUMBAI: The ministry of health & family welfare has debunked a fake ‘Office Memorandum’ (OM) issued in its name, giving holidays to government offices in four states in view of the Coronavirus disease.

The fake OM says that “holiday is mandatory to all schools, colleges, educational institutes, work place having more than 10 employees” in Maharasthra, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Sikkim from 14 March to 21 March, 2020. It further says that in case of any breach of the order a fine of Rs 5000/- will be applicable per day.

In a fact check, the ministry of health & family welfare has clarified that the ‘OM’ is fake and that it has not issued any such memorandum. The ministry has also informed that necessary action under relevant laws is being initiated.

The fake OM, titled “Clarification regarding declaration of holidays for the States,” has been written in such a way that it accords an aura of authenticity.