The nation is in mourning following the heartbreaking loss of Lieutenant Azad Singh Chahar, a devoted officer of the Regiment of Artillery in the Indian Army. The 24-year-old succumbed to liver cancer at a military hospital in Delhi late Tuesday night, leaving a significant void in the armed forces and the hearts of those he served alongside.
Lieutenant Chahar, a graduate of the prestigious National Defence Academy (142 NDA) and the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun, was commissioned into the Indian Army on June 10, 2023. He was serving with the 22 Medium Regiment of Artillery in Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir. Renowned for his commitment, leadership, and courage throughout his brief military career, Lieutenant Chahar exemplified dedication to duty and a strong sense of service to his nation.
In a tragic turn of events, Lieutenant Chahar was diagnosed with end-stage liver cancer, specifically Hepatocellular Carcinoma in its fourth stage. His battle against the illness commenced with treatment in Gurgaon, where he demonstrated incredible strength and resilience despite the formidable challenges he faced. Unfortunately, in recent weeks, his condition worsened, marked by complications such as tumor growth and fluid accumulation, which ultimately led to his untimely death.
Following his passing, Lieutenant Chahar’s mortal remains were transported to his native village, Akola. There, thousands of mourners came together to honor the fallen officer. Draped in the national tricolor, his body was met with full military honors, including a ceremonial salute from a contingent of the Indian Army and the poignant playing of the Last Post. His funeral was conducted with state honors, where his younger brother, Abhishek Chahar, performed the last rites amidst a solemn atmosphere.
The emotional farewell was further compounded by the grief of his mother, Sunita Devi, who was inconsolable as family members and well-wishers gathered to pay their respects. Dignitaries, including the son of a local Member of Parliament, Shoorveer Chahar, and Govind Sharma, district president of the Rashtriya Lok Dal, attended the ceremony to extend their condolences and support to the grieving family.
In a show of solidarity, the Chinar Corps and fellow soldiers from the Indian Army expressed their deepest sympathies, emphasizing the profound impact of Lieutenant Azad Singh Chahar’s sacrifice. His legacy will be forever etched in the history of the military and will serve as a reminder of the unwavering commitment and sacrifices made by those who wear the uniform.
