An unexpected and dramatic event took place in the Rajya Sabha when Congress MP Phulo Devi Netam collapsed while protesting over the NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) issue. The incident, which was captured on video, has caused a stir both inside and outside Parliament.
The Incident
Phulo Devi Netam, a dedicated Congress MP from Chhattisgarh, was actively participating in a heated debate over the contentious NEET examination policies. The discussion had been intense, with members from various parties expressing their views on the matter. Amidst the uproar, Netam, who had been standing and speaking passionately, suddenly fainted and fell to the floor.
#WATCH | Congress party's Rajya Sabha MP Phulo Devi Netam being taken away in an ambulance from Parliament after she felt dizzy and fell. She was protesting in the Well of of the House over NEET issue when the incident happened. She is being taken to RML hospital. pic.twitter.com/ljyXgCfuMA
— ANI (@ANI) June 28, 2024
Immediate Response
The Rajya Sabha was immediately thrown into chaos as fellow MPs rushed to her aid. Medical personnel stationed in the Parliament were quickly summoned, and Netam was given first aid on the spot. Witnesses describe the scene as highly stressful, with concern etched on the faces of all present.
Rushed to Hospital
Following the initial treatment, Phulo Devi Netam was quickly transported to the nearest hospital for further evaluation and care. According to sources, she regained consciousness during the ambulance ride but appeared very weak. The exact cause of her collapse is yet to be determined, but doctors suspect it may be due to exhaustion and dehydration, compounded by the stress of the ongoing protest.
Reactions from Parliament
The incident sparked a wave of reactions from both the ruling party and the opposition. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed his concern and solidarity, tweeting, “Phulo Devi Netam is a brave soul fighting for our students. Praying for her swift recovery.”
Other MPs also shared their thoughts and prayers for Netam’s quick recuperation. BJP spokesperson, while extending his wishes for her speedy recovery, urged all MPs to maintain decorum and ensure their health is not compromised during such critical discussions.
The NEET Controversy
The debate over NEET has been a contentious issue for months. Critics argue that the exam favors students from urban backgrounds who can afford expensive coaching, thereby disadvantaging students from rural areas and economically weaker sections. Phulo Devi Netam has been a vocal critic of NEET, advocating for a more inclusive and equitable education system.
Social Media Reactions
The videos of Netam’s collapse quickly went viral on social media, drawing widespread attention and concern. Hashtags like #PhuloDeviNetam, #NEETProtest, and #RajyaSabha quickly began trending, with netizens expressing their views and prayers.
Support for Netam
Many users lauded Netam for her commitment and bravery. One Twitter user wrote, “Seeing our leaders fighting so passionately for our rights is inspiring. Get well soon, Phulo Devi Netam. We stand with you.”
Calls for Action
Others took the opportunity to call for immediate action on the NEET issue. “This incident shows the urgency of the matter. Our leaders are collapsing fighting for us. It’s high time the government listens,” tweeted another user.
Hospital Updates
As of the latest updates, Phulo Devi Netam is stable and under observation. Doctors have advised her to rest and avoid any strenuous activities for the time being. She is expected to stay in the hospital for a few more days for thorough medical evaluation.