A video of independent candidate Saloni Raj, who is contesting the Patna University Students' Union (PUSU) elections scheduled for 29 March, has gone viral. In the video, Raj can be seen issuing a bold challenge to her opponents, asking them to "shoot me in the chest if you consider me weak since I'm a girl."
Her statement comes amid a spurt in violence during the campaign trail, including clashes and gunfire. The video has drawn widespread attention, adding to the controversy as election day nears.
Clashes and Violence Ahead of Elections
Tensions flared outside Patna Women's College on Tuesday after incidents of fistfights and gunfire were reported. The following day, two incidents took place near Magadh Women's College, where two rival student groups clashed.
During one altercation, Raj, who is independently contesting for the position of General Secretary, and her supporters were reportedly involved in a physical confrontation with the other student group, according to an NDTV report. The situation was brought under control after police intervened following a call from Raj.
Viral Video Sparks Debate
In a video posted on Saloni Raj on her Instagram account, she can be seen challenging her opponents, stating, "We give an open challenge: come and shoot me in the chest. I will win the election on my own. A girl will win and rule the student union."
In a separate Instagram post, Raj accused her rivals of targeting her and her campaign team. "Opponents, rattled by the fear of losing, attacked me and my companions with lethal intent during the campaign at Magadh Women's College. They cannot bear the fact that a lone girl, without any party's support, has entered the electoral race. My sisters studying at the university and my justice-loving brothers will answer this hooliganism with their votes," she wrote in her Instagram post.
The video has sparked mixed reactions on social media ever since it went viral. While some users have voiced support for Raj, others have mocked her statements.
Raj, a student at Patna Women’s College, is contesting as an independent candidate for the General Secretary position. The campaign period will officially end on March 27, with candidates now preparing for the polls under heightened public scrutiny.