Farrukh Bakht Ali

Farrukh Bakht Ali (8 February 1929 – 21 February 2021) was a one-star rank officer of the Pakistan Army. He played a vital role in the 1971 Pakistan Military Officer's Revolt, which led to the removal of President Yahya Khan from power.

Early life and education Farrukh Bakht Ali was born in Delhi, British Raj to a Patiala family. His family had been serving in the Police service for decades. While his father was posted at Lahore, he was enrolled into Government College Lahore. During his student days, he was actively involved in Muslim League campaigns. He had met Khurshid Anwar, the then key political figure who initiated an armed struggle in Kashmir. Though Ali wanted to join Anwar's plan, he later decided to join the Pakistan Army following his father's advice.

Military career Ali was commissioned in Pakistan Army in November 1948 in Artillery Regiment. During his military career, he served at various capacities, which includes 1st Mountain Regiment, 7th Field Regiment and 9th Medium Regiment. He was the commanding officer of 44th SP Field Regiment.

Getting backlash for poor performance and facing a revolt of his own army, Yahya was forced to surrender, handing over the power of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto.

Imprisonment In 1973, Brigadier Ali was court-martialed under Zulfikar Ali Bhutto's government on charges of conspiring against the state. The proceedings were overseen by then Major General Zia-ul-Haq, who later, as Army Chief, ordered Ali’s release in 1978 after five years in prison, overriding his original life sentence.