Is Paying Salaries During COVID-19 Lockdown Optional or Mandatory? Seeking Clarity

Dear team,

There seems to be a difference of opinion regarding the payment of salaries during the lockdown period. Attached is a piece of news from a newspaper which states that payment of salaries during the lockdown period is optional and not mandatory. I am confused about whether it is optional or compulsory. Please guide.

Payment of full salary was made mandatory just to make the people sit at homes. Please follow the link.

Madhu T K: Liability of employers to pay salary during COVID-19 lockdown period