The deceased, Mariammal from Kondalampatty was quarantined at the college on June 30 after her relative tested positive for coronavirus. After the first round of tests turned negative, she was expected to undergo the second test on Monday.

However, Mariammal hanged herself by tying a saree to the window grill of the room. On receiving information, the Kannankurichi police rushed to the spot and held inquiries. Clueless on the reason for her extreme step, the police also held inquiries with doctors and health department staff at the quarantine camp.

Following her demise, the relatives of the woman gathered in front of the college and sought an explanation from the health department for restraining her in the quarantine centre even though she tested negative for COVID-19. They also blamed poor monitoring and lack of expert counseling at the centre to have driven her to death.

The family members attempted to block the road, but were persuaded by police to leave the spot.

Meanwhile, police are inquiring if the woman committed suicide due to issues with her husband, who was separated from her.

Salem district continues to lead the Western region with 1,288 COVID-19 positive cases, including the 40 new infections reported on Monday. Next comes, Coimbatore with 802 cases with about 60 fresh cases.