Jammu, Jan 31 (NationPress) The government of Jammu and Kashmir has officially approved the renaming of Kathua Railway Station to honor the brave Kirti Chakra awardee and martyr Captain Sunil Kumar Choudhary, recognizing his extraordinary sacrifice for the nation. This decision has stirred profound feelings of pride and sorrow within his family, notably his father, retired Colonel P.L. Choudhary. He expressed that while the loss of a son creates an enduring void, the bravery of Captain Choudhary instills pride in their hearts.

An official decree has been issued to formally rename the railway station in Kathua district as a tribute to Captain Choudhary’s ultimate sacrifice while serving the nation.

This decision is perceived as a heartfelt tribute to the fallen officer and an affirmation of the Union Territory's dedication to honoring the sacrifices made by armed forces personnel.

Upon hearing this news, Colonel P.L. Choudhary shared with IANS that the government’s initiative to dedicate public facilities to martyrs is highly commendable.

“The government has confirmed the renaming of Kathua Railway Station in honor of my son’s sacrifice. Naming stations, schools, and parks after martyrs serves as motivation for children and inspires them to commit themselves to the nation,” he remarked.

Reflecting on his own military background, Colonel Choudhary noted that children from armed forces families often grow up with a strong inclination toward military service.

“Given my career in the Army, our perspectives naturally gravitate towards the Army, Navy, or Air Force. Children observe the uniform and the noble work we do, which inspires them, and when they join the armed forces, they often excel,” he stated.

Captain Choudhary was stationed in Tinsukia near the Assam–Arunachal Pradesh border, where shortly after his deployment, he successfully led an operation that neutralized two terrorists from the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA).

For his acts of gallantry, he was awarded the Sena Medal on January 26, 2008, establishing himself as a significant threat to the terrorist outfit.

The very next day, January 27, 2008, he was set to attend a celebratory lunch hosted by his Commanding Officer, Colonel Pramit Saxena, to commemorate his Sena Medal award, alongside Lieutenant Varun Rathore of 19 Punjab. However, before reaching the event, new intelligence revealed the presence of several ULFA terrorists in Rangagarh village. Without a second thought, Captain Choudhary prioritized duty over personal celebration.

During this critical operation, Captain Choudhary successfully eliminated two terrorists but sustained a severe bullet wound to the left side of his chest. He ultimately succumbed to his injuries. Before his sacrifice, he ensured that the terrorist threat was neutralized while preventing civilian and troop casualties. For his extraordinary bravery, he was posthumously awarded the Kirti Chakra.

“There is immense pride, but also profound sorrow,” Colonel Choudhary reflected. “Losing a young son creates a lasting grief. However, whenever we hear stories of his valor from the battalion, our hearts swell with pride.”

Satya Choudhary, the mother of Captain Choudhary, expressed her feelings to IANS, stating, "Today, when I learned the news, I felt overjoyed that Kathua Railway Station has been named after my son, Captain Sunil Choudhary. I extend my gratitude to both the central and state governments, along with those who advocated for this honor. Today, I feel immensely proud that such recognition has occurred for us. Although my son is no longer with us, his name will remain eternal for generations to come."

According to Government Order No.129-JK(GAD) of 2026, released by the General Administration Department, the Kathua Railway Station will now officially be referred to as 'Martyr Captain Sunil Kumar Choudhary Kathua Railway Station.