Sajad Haider

Not to be confused with Urdu-writer Syed Sajjad Haider Yaldram.

Air Commodore Sayed Sajad Haider Sitara-e-Jurat
سید سجاد حیدر
Sajad in the 1960s
Director Joint Warfare General Headquarters (Pakistan Army)
In office 1977 – 25 May 1980
Pakistan Air Attaché to Washington & Ottawa
In office September 1974 – 1976
Preceded by	Eric G. Hall
Director of Flight Safety AHQ (PAF)
In office February 1973 – September 1974
Commander No 33 Wing
In office 12 September 1971 – February 1973
Officer Commanding No. 14 Squadron PAF
In office 14 April 1969 – 31 December 1970
Preceded by	MG Tawab
Officer Commanding No. 19 Squadron PAF
In office October 1963 – June 1967
Personal details
Born	Sayed Sajjad Haider 26 December 1932 (1932-12-26) (age 91) Sargodha, British India
Spouses	Iffat ​ ​ (m. 1960; div. 1969)​ Tahira ​ ​ (m. 1970; div. 1971)​ Faryda ​ ​ (m. 1980; div. 1989)​
Children	3
Parents	Dr. Syed Fazal Shah (father) Rashida Begum (mother)
Education	Mission School Quetta Islamia School Quetta St. Francis' Grammar School FC College RPAF Academy PAF Staff College German Air Force Officer Training School Advanced Jet Course (USA) Fighter Leaders' School, Mauripur Joint Service Defence College National Defence College, Islamabad Quaid-i-Azam University (MSc)
Known for	Leading the attack on India's Pathankot Air Base during the Indo-Pakistani Air War of 1965
Nickname(s)	Nosey Haider Saviour of Lahore
Military service
Branch/service	Pakistan Air Force
Years of service	1952–1980
Rank	Air Commodore
Commands	SASO Air Defence Command Air Attache to Washington Director Flight Safety No. 33 Wing No. 14 Squadron PAF Air Def Ops Comd, Peshawar Staff Ops Officer, Sargodha No. 19 Squadron PAF
Battles/wars	Waziristan Rebellion Indo-Pakistani War of 1965 Air war operations Indo-Pakistani War of 1971
Awards	Golden Eagle Award (1958) Caterpillar Club (1961) Sitara-e-Jurat (1965) (6) Green Endorsements

Air Commodore Sajad Haider SJ (Urdu: سید سجاد حیدر; born 26 December 1932) also known by his aliases as Nosey Haider and Saviour of Lahore, is a retired Pakistani fighter pilot and former one-star rank officer in the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). He is best known for leading a devastating Blitzkrieg on the Pathankot airbase in India on 6 September during the Indo-Pakistani air war of 1965. Haider personally destroyed four Indian aircraft, 11 Indian tanks and damaged another three. The formation destroyed a total of 13 Indian aircraft including 2 MiG-21s. The following day, Haider led his pilots to Srinagar Air Force Station where they destroyed another three aircraft. He is also an author, columnist, businessman, defence analyst, political commentator, and philanthropist.

Haider's career was marked by a series of significant events, three of which stood out due to false accusations and political intrigue. The initial incident involved unfounded charges of treason and mutiny amid an alleged coup against Zulfikar Ali Bhutto's regime. Crucially, the coup charges were exposed as manipulated accusations orchestrated by Chief of Air Staff of the PAF Zafar Chaudhry who was later fired, Saeedullah Khan and Khaqan Abbasi. This orchestrated effort targeted not only Sajad but also implicated 13 other PAF officers. Despite navigating through a labyrinth of false accusations, Sajad and the rest of the officers were eventually exonerated after investigations exposed the manipulative tactics at play. The second instance transpired in Washington, where an American corporate executive offered him a bribe. Sajad refused and told him "Get out of my office. I will have your company blacklisted," the executive was fired after the head of the company found out and personally apologized to Sajad. Subsequently, a SAVAK operative from the Iran embassy with a direct hotline to the Shah of Iran had fabricated a falsehood with the help of the American, alleging that Sajad had defamed the Shah, which resulted in diplomatic tensions between Pakistan-Iran, with the Shah requesting Bhutto to remove him from his position. Afterwards, it was revealed that the executive along with several Pakistani, Iranian, and Americans created the falsehood as they wanted to make money from shady defence deals being offered to the Pakistan Air Force.

Challenges persisted within the PAF, illustrating a complex bureaucratic landscape and personal rivalries that continued to influence and shape his career. Sajad writes that the Americans coerced President Ayub Khan to let them establish a spy base at Badaber in Peshawar where Lockheed U-2 fighter planes operated from. That to Sajad is the beginning of Pakistanis taking American dictation, "We traded our sovereignty for preservation of a dictator (Field Marshal Ayub Khan) and we've never looked back. The Americans have always let down Pakistan." He further states that he was very close friends with Zulfikar Ali Bhutto but would never forgive him for his role in the separation of East Pakistan.

Sajad Haider retired from the PAF in 1980 following an act of dissent against President Zia-ul-Haq and his authoritarian regime (see his dissent against Zia). During a top-secret address at the GHQ (Pakistan Army) in November 1979, where Zia outlined the continued military rule, Haider seized the moment to express his concerns when Zia hesitantly allowed him to speak. He criticized the intelligence agencies for manipulating the truth, highlighted the stifled press, and conveyed his disillusionment with the military's conduct towards civilians. Despite warnings from colleagues about the consequences, Haider chose to speak out to Zia-ul-Haq's face. Unwilling to serve under Zia's rule, he opted to retire, leaving behind a distinguished career and embarking on a new life with minimal resources. Haider remained engaged in advocating for the PAF's well-being while candidly critiquing its policies, emphasizing his passion for the institution despite the challenges he faced towards the end of his career.

After retirement, he started his own defence, aviation and communication company, Cormorant. He decided to shutdown the company in 1990, after being targeted and offered kickbacks by two Pakistan Army generals at the Defence Procurement Division including the Director General. In September 2020, Haider gave an interview to TCM Originals discussing the 1965 Pathankot strike. Additionally, he is a staunch supporter of Imran Khan and donated to his fundraiser for the affectees of the 2022 Pakistan floods for which Imran thanked him. In 2023, he was holding a placard in support of Imran Khan, when an Islamabad Police Officer appointed by Nawaz Sharif approached him and began misbehaving, undermining the Commodores efforts during the 1965 war by parroting him in a taunting way.

Early life and education

Syed Sajjad Haider was born in Sargodha on 25 or 26 December 1932, at midnight. His parents were Dr. Syed Fazal Shah (1882-1986) and Rashida Begum. He has an older sister named Kausar and two younger brothers, Dr. Bunyad Haider (1936-2014), a renowned cardiologist who served as the Chairperson of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and the youngest, Jawwad Haider.

Sajad attended Mission School Quetta with his sister Kausar until class 5, then Islamia High School Quetta for 3 years. Finally, they were admitted to St. Francis' Grammar School. He aspired to follow in the footsteps of his hero, Quaid-e-Azam, who he saw at his old school in Quetta, sitting just six feet away, sparking the seed of his ambition to become a defender of Pakistan. Additionally, seeing polish pilots engage in dogfights over Quetta during World War II left a lasting impression on him, as he was captivated by their prowess in Spitfires, vowing to become a fighter pilot himself, his father laughed it off. Sajad writes, "I was the first to become a fighter pilot from Balochistan."

His family initially lived in Bugti House before moving into a small tin-roofed home within a complex of eight houses built by Nawab Mehran Khan Bugti. Mehran, a friend of Sajad's father, gifted him two of the houses. Sajad grew up with Akbar Bugti and his siblings after moving to the house. He recalls Akbar as a "stunning and fearsome person" who always called him chapeit or scrawny boy. His younger brother, Ahmed Nawaz Bugti, would take Sajad with him everyday for driving lessons.

Against the backdrop of the post-World War II depression, Sajad's family confronted challenging times, as his father did not charge people for treatment, leading the family to rely on ration cards to obtain essential goods like sugar, flour, tea, eggs, cooking oil, and petrol. Despite the economic difficulties, he reflects that the harsh realities of war did not directly impact his childhood, thanks to his mother's significant sacrifices to ensure warmth and sustenance.

After passing the Senior Cambridge exam, Sajad joined FC College in 1950.

Ancestry

Main article: Khwarazmian Empire

Sajad traces his family history to the rulers of the Khwarazmian Empire. His father Dr. Syed Fazal Shah, came from a small village called Moinuddinpur in Gujrat, founded by his ancestor, Sayed Moin-ud-Din Shah.

Dr. Syed Fazal Shah served as a doctor in World War I and later established his practice in Quetta at the invitation of his close friend and sworn brother, Nawab Mehrab Khan Bugti, father of Akbar Bugti, as well as at the request of Jafar Khan Jamali. Syed Fazal Shah was also friends with Muhammad Ali Jinnah and was one of the pioneers of the AIML, laying its foundations in Balochistan and Sindh.

Once during a meeting, Jinnah had asked Dr. Sayed Fazal Shah, "Why didn’t you become President of the Muslim League in Balochistan yourself? Why did you allow Qazi Muhammad Isa to take the position?" He replied, "I am not interested in power but in the results of the prime mission. Furthermore, Qazi Muhammad Isa is a local of Balochistan, while I am an outsider."

Sajad's mother, Rashida Begum, was a housewife who did social work for the poor and those suffering from diseases, especially tuberculosis patients. Dr. Syed Fazal Shah was Punjabi and Rashida Begum was Pashtun from her mother's side.

Completely dedicated to his medical profession, Sajad's father, Dr. Syed Fazal Shah, worked diligently in his practice, providing medical care to numerous underprivileged patients at nominal or no fees. He promptly responded to every emergency call, even in challenging conditions such as freezing temperatures in Quetta. His commitment took him to distant places with him attending to individuals like the wife of his friend, Nawab Mehrab Khan Bugti. He also extended his services to remote villages like Rojahan Jamali. Sajad recalls that his father never refused or protested if a patient had outstanding arrears, enduring irregular call timings, considerable distances, and various modes of transportation, ranging from a horse-drawn cart to a jeep and sometimes even horseback.

Personal life

Sajad married three times. In 1960, he married his first wife Iffat, who gave birth to their son Adnan in 1963. He married his second wife, Tahira in 1970 and the marriage lasted until 1971. He married his last wife, Faryda in April 1979 who gave birth to their son Zohare in 1980 and daughter Zaina in 1984.

In 1978, Haider attended the Quaid-i-Azam University and earned his MSc in Anthropology.

Pakistan Air Force career

Flt Cdt Sajad Haider at the PAF Academy as part of the 13th GD(P) course (1951)

Mitty Masud (center), Sajjad Haider (right) and the rest of the PAF aerobatic team that set the World record loop (1958)

King Zahir Shah arrives at Mauripur with Iskandar Mirza and Nahid Mirza, greeted by C-in-C of the PAF Asghar Khan, Nur Khan, and chiefs from the Iraqi, Turkish, Iran Air Force, and General Ayub Khan. The loop is showcased towards the end of the video with Sajad at the third position in the formation (1958)

During his second year at the FC College, he was selected to join the 13th GD(P) Course at the RPAF Academy in December 1951. Haider reflects on being an "average student" who barely scraped through the 1½ year course. However, shortly after earning his pilot's wings, he rose to the top of his course within months, despite starting in the middle during training.

Airstrikes against Faqir of Ipi

Main article: Waziristan rebellion (1948-1954)

In 1953–54, Sajad Haider participated in air raids against Faqir of Ipi and his men. In an interview in 2004, he recalled: "We were called in to rescue ground troops. Flying overhead we saw hundreds of tribal fighters, in groups of 10 and 15, hiding behind big boulders. They knew the terrain, they moved very quickly and understood the limitations of our aircraft. They used to hide at the bottom of steep hills so pilots would have no space to pull up after attacks."

World record loop of 1958

Main article: World record loop

On 2 February 1958, flying in the No. 3 position, F/L Haider was part of the 16 F-86 Sabres aerobatic team led by Wg Cdr Mitty Masud that set a world record performing a 16 aircraft diamond loop. Hundreds of thousands of people were in attendance including, President Iskandar Ali Mirza, C-in-C of the Pakistan Army General Ayub Khan, C-in-C of the PAF Air Marshal Asghar Khan, Air Commodore Nur Khan, Turkish Air Force Chief Hamdullah Suphi Göker, Iraqi Air Force Chief Abdul Kadhim Abaddi, Chief of the Imperial Iranian Air Force Hedayatollah Gilanshah and Chief Guest King of Afghanistan Mohammad Zahir Shah in whose honor the performance had been organized.

The same year, Sajad was the youngest and first to receive the Golden Eagle Award (Pakistan) after the Partition of British India, for being an exceptional fighter pilot.

War of 1965

Main article: Indo-Pakistani air war of 1965

OC No. 19 Squadron PAF Sajad Haider (middle) planning airstrikes on Pathankot with his fighter pilots (1965)

Smoke rises from India's Pathankot airbase during airstrikes by No. 19 Squadron PAF led by Sajad Haider.

Sajad Haider often lauded as the Saviour of Lahore and one of the key heroes of the 1965 War, led the Sherdils of No. 19 Squadron PAF as Squadron Leader.

1965 War's Pathankot Strike, was a mission that underscored Haider's strategic acumen and the unwavering resolve of his squadron. The PAF played an integral role in hindering the Indian land forces' advance, particularly in the Wagah sector. Despite the historical significance of these events, Haider notes that they are often overlooked in war narratives.

Before they took off from Peshawar, Haider had arranged for towels drenched in buckets of eau de cologne stating to his men: "Boys we don’t know who will be the unlucky ones who won’t be able to dodge the enemy Ack-ack. They would surely arrive in the reception hall up there (Heaven) at around 1715 Hrs; but let us be sure we all smell good for the promised houris and angels who will receive us at the gates leading to heaven, for fighting as Allah has commanded us."

Haider paints a detailed picture of the Wagah Strike, shedding light on the precision and bravery exhibited by the young pilots under his command which played an instrumental role in altering the course of the war. The narrative also explores the Pathankot Strike, wherein Haider's squadron targeted the IAF airfield with aircraft guns only. The success of the mission, resulting in the destruction of numerous Indian aircraft, showcased the exceptional skill and determination of the PAF pilots acknowledged by the Indians. Haider attributes the success to the collective efforts of his team and underscores the leadership and the visionary strategies of Air Marshal Asghar Khan and Air Marshal Nur Khan.

The following day, Haider was called by his base commander who handed him a letter which included a tasking order, instructing No 19 Squadron to reconnoiter Avantipura airfield, Strafe any targets, then proceed to Srinagar to attack grounded aircraft. The Flight Commander, Mo Akbar, was asked to assign three pilots for the mission. He agreed and a team was formed with Arshad Sami Khan, Rao Akhtar, and Khalid Latif. A Hi-Lo-Hi profile was planned, avoiding radar detection by climbing to 20,000ft near Nanga Parbat. Descending over Khel village, they entered Kashmir valley, enjoying the scenery. Approaching Srinagar, the target at Avantipura was observed, then they turned towards Srinagar airfield. As they approached, a brightly painted civilian helicopter was spotted by Flt Lt Rao Akhtar who asked Haider for permission to shoot it down. Haider replied "No, leave it alone, it’s a civilian helicopter." Afterwards, it was reported that the helicopter was carrying Chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir Ghulam Mohammed Sadiq. As Haider pulled up, heavy anti-aircraft fire commenced, prompting a strafing attack. An C-7 Caribou and two C-47 Dakotas were targeted and destroyed. After the attack, the formation regrouped and returned home. Later reports confirmed their successful mission, detailing the destruction of enemy aircraft on the ground. India claimed shooting down two Sabres and the capture of Squadron Leader Haider, which were proven false.

Sitara-e-Jurat

Field Marshal Ayub Khan pinning the Sitara-e-Jurat on Sqn/Ldr Sajad Haider (1965)

The Sitara-e-Jurat citation reads:

CITATION
SQUADRON LEADER SYED SAJJAD HAIDER (PAK/1445)

“Squadron Leader Syed Sajad Haider displayed exceptional leadership, courage and flying skill in the operations against the enemy during the Indo-Pak War. He destroyed four enemy aircraft, eleven enemy tanks and damaged three tanks. Throughout the operations, his attitude both on the ground and in the air was exemplary. He infused his pilots with aggressiveness. The strike mission which he led on 6th September 1965, against Pathankot airfield, where his formation destroyed 13 enemy aircraft including two MIG-21’s, was conducted in the best traditions of the Pakistan Air Force. The formation carried out repeated attacks in the face of heavy ack-ack. For the determination, courage and exceptional flying skill with which he flew and led his squadron during operations against the enemy. Squadron Leader Syed Sajad Haider, is awarded SJ.”

War of 1971

After serving at PAF Base Dacca as the Commander of No. 14 Squadron PAF, Sajad was nominated for the Joint Service Defence College in the United Kingdom. Upon returning in September 1971, he took command of the No 33 Wing at Sargodha. However, as tensions between India and Pakistan heightened, he faced the challenge of preparing the Wing for any impending threat.

The Wing under his leadership, included No. 5 Sqn of Mirages, No. 25 Sqn with Sabres, No. 23 Sqn with newly inducted Chinese F-6 and No. 11 Sqn with F-104s. Haider drawing on his experience from the 1965 War, swiftly readied the Wing for a potential conflict. One of his initial actions was to convert to the newly inducted French Mirages, which he flew a couple of missions on and became operational in no time.

As he settled into his role, the 1971 War broke out. Undeterred, Sajad led the Wing in notable contributions, with No. 5 Squadron PAF conducting successful strike missions in India's Amritsar, Pathankot, and the famous strike on Mukerian railway station. He writes that he personally flew various missions on Mirages, F-86s, and F-6s, often undertaking two missions a day despite heavy office commitments.

The Wing played a crucial role in close support operations, conducting nearly 200 missions in the Zafarwal-Chawinda sector. No 33 wing destroyed a significant fuel dump at Akhnoor on 10 December. From 12 to 15 December, No 33 Wing flew 50 to 60 missions daily. In battles against Indian armor, the Wing, particularly the F-6 Sqn, inflicted substantial damage, contributing significantly to stalling the Indian assault on the Sialkot sector. Under Haider's command, No 33 Wing excelled in air combat, with young pilots achieving kills against superior IAF aircraft.

Attock Conspiracy 1973, arrest, solitary confinement, and exoneration

On 30 March 1973, several Pakistan Army and Pakistan Air Force officers, including Sajad, were arrested for their alleged role in what was to be known as the 1973 Attock Conspiracy Case on charges of attempting to overthrow the Government of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. He was placed in solitary confinement, in a dark room for months in which he recalls that he developed a stronger relationship with Allah.

He was offered a deal to get out early by two officials of the DAI, CA Waheed and Sibtain, who he referred to as Gestapo rats, in exchange for a false confessional statement against Zulfiqar Ali Khan in front of a magistrate, which Sajad refused to do.

The 14 air force officials were tried at PAF Camp Badaber on 27 July 1973 in a General Court Martial headed by Air Vice Marshal Chaudhry Rab Nawaz where Haider and others were exonerated. The court members also observed that the case against Sajad was purely a personal vendetta driven by the sitting Chief of Air Staff of the PAF, Zafar Chaudhry, due to Sajad's defiance against him.

The Verdict read:

VERDICT

“THE MEMBERS OF THE COURT HAVE DELIBERATED VERY CAREFULLY THE EVIDENCE PRODUCED BY THE PROSECUTION THROUGHOUT THE TRIAL AND TODAY AS RESPONSE TO THE ‘PLEA OF NO CASE’ BY THE LEGAL COUNSEL OF ACCUSED NO 13, THE COURT FINDS THE PROSECUTOR’S CASE AGAINST THE ACCUSED INDEFENSIBLE. IT IS THE UNANIMOUS DECISION OF THE COURT THAT THE ‘PLEA OF NO CASE’ IS ACCEPTED AND ACCUSED NO 13, GROUP CAPTAIN SAJAD HAIDER SAYED, STANDS EXONERATED AGAINST ALL CHARGES LEVELED AGAINST HIM. HE IS FREE TO LEAVE THE COURT ROOM.”

Air Attache

Thomas P. Stafford, Sajjad Haider, and Zulfiqar Ali Khan at the Edwards AFB (1970's)

In September 1974, he relinquished the charge of Director Flight Safety and was appointed as Pakistan's Air Attaché to Washington and Ottawa.

During Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto's visit to Washington, D.C. in 1975, Group Captain Haider was part of the greeting committee on 4 February 1975 where they met Bhutto at Andrews AFB, proceeded to the President's Guest House before attending a private dinner at the residence of Sahabzada Yaqub Khan, the Pakistani Ambassador to the United States.

Shah of Iran's accusation against Sajad

The Vice President of a major Fortune 500 corporation, in 1973, requests Air attaché Sajad Haider, to give him his Swiss bank account number. He promptly rejects the unethical request, instructing the American "Get out of my office, I'll have your company blacklisted." Sajad's strong reaction prompts the president of the company to intervene, by personally apologizing to him and dismissing the Vice President for offering the bribe.

Undeterred, the ousted Vice President collaborates with touts, including Pakistanis, Iranians, and Americans, all seeking to profit from questionable defence deals with the Pakistan Air Force. The situation takes a precarious turn when Sajad is urgently summoned by the secretary of Ambassador Sahabzada Yaqub Khan during an early lunch one day. Rushing to the Embassy, Khan who was visibly distressed, hands him a secret telex from Aziz Ahmed accusing him of derogatory remarks against The Shah. Ambassador Sahabzada Yaqub Khan further informs Sajad that The Shah of Iran desires Sajad's immediate removal and court-martial following a personal complaint to Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto during their meeting in İzmir.

The Shah's son-in-law Ardeshir Zahedi who is also the Iranian ambassador in Washington, is shocked by the turn of events, as he is a close friend of Sajad.

The Telex read:

TELEX

“DURING THE FIRST RCD MEETING AT IZMIR BETWEEN THE ARYAMEHR SHAHINSHAH OF IRAN AND MR BHUTTO, THE SHAHINSHAH DISCUSSED IN DETAIL THE PAKISTAN AIR ATTACHÉ AT WASHINGTON, GP CAPT SAJAD HAIDER. THE SHAHINSHAH TOOK STRONG EXCEPTION TO THE DEROGATORY COMMENTS MADE BY THE AIR ATTACHÉ AGAINST ARYAMEHR SHAHINSHAH OF IRAN’S PERSON AND FURTHER ALLEGED HE HAS BEEN SPREADING DISCONTENT AMONGST THE IRANIAN COMMUNITY. THE SHAHINSHAH WANTED IMMEDIATE ACTION AGAINST THE AIR ATTACHÉ. CONSIDERING THE SENSITIVE RELATIONS BETWEEN IRAN AND PAKISTAN YOU ARE TO REPATRIATE THE AIR ATTACHÉ INSTANTLY.”

In the midst of the turmoil, Haider faced a surprising reassignment by the Ambassador, leaving him disheartened. However, a letter from the Foreign Secretary eventually conveyed his exoneration. Strained relations persisted, leading to Haider's recall from Washington.

Abdur Rahim Khan, upon learning of Haider's financial constraints, arranged for his travel to Spain, where Khan was serving as the Ambassador. Haider writes that this act of generosity became pivotal as it provided him with the means to meet Khan and seek solace during a challenging period. During their meeting, Sajad writes that tears streamed down Khan's face as he listened to Haider's account of his service and the court-martial.

Returning to Pakistan, Haider faced challenges, including an unexpected reassignment by the Chief of Air Staff. Frustrated by the lack of communication and understanding, he confronted the Chief, questioning the return of individuals involved in past intrigues.

Subsequently, a investigation reveals that a SAVAK operative from Zahedi's embassy, with a direct line to the Shah, fabricated the malicious lie against Sajad. A letter written by Ambassador SYAK to VCAS AVM Hassan exonerated Sajad. The letter uncovered that the false accusations originated from the American businessman, driven by resentment after being snubbed by Sajad Haider for offering him a bribe. According to Sajad, Hassan had allegedly not shown the letter to CAS of the PAF Zulfiqar Ali Khan.

In a final encounter with Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, Bhutto acknowledged the harsh realities of the political landscape, empathizing with Haider's court-martial hardships. Sajad writes that Bhutto's words, "This is a cruel world, Haider," foreshadowed his own destiny.

Dissent against Zia's dictatorship

In the aftermath of a top-secret meeting at GHQ (Pakistan Army) in November 1979, Sajad Haider found himself at a crossroads. As President Zia-ul-Haq concluded his speech, a sense of rebellion stirred within him, as he had been harboring concerns about the prevailing situation in the country. Nervous and hesitant, Sajad knew that dissenting against the powerful Zia could mark the end of his career in the PAF.

While Zia sat down after his closing remarks, Sajad stood up and felt a tug at his trousers from General F. S. Lodhi, urging him to remain silent. Sajad says he was fully aware that expressing his dissent could have severe consequences. Gathering his courage, Sajad decided to speak out. Despite the attempts to silence him, he stood up and addressed the President directly. General Zia-ul-Haq, irritated by the interruption, granted him a brief moment to speak. In that instance, Sajad voiced his concerns about the intelligence agencies, the stifled press, and the intimidation faced by ordinary citizens. He painted a stark picture of the disconnect between the rulers and the reality of the nation.

In the face of potential consequences, Sajad spoke the following words to Zia-ul-haq in front of the entire gathering: "Mr. President, Pakistanis seem to live in a constant state of foreboding and terror of the intelligence agencies. These intelligence agencies have never told the truth, as it is not in their culture to do so, nor are they telling the truth to you about the state of the hearts and minds of the nation. Are these hearts beating for Pakistan or from the fear of getting lashed in public or thrown in dirty cells with convicts on the mere suspicion of being dissenters? These agencies have carefully crafted the fall of every government. What is to stop them from doing the same to your government?

Sir, the road from the airport to the Aiwan-e-Sadr does not reflect the soul of Pakistan; which, in fact, lurks in the dark and pitted backstreets of Pakistan. But these agencies would not suggest that you take a peek there and see the real state of the wretched Pakistani nation. The press, Mr. President, is stifled, and people are petrified to speak their distressed minds.

I have worn this uniform with incredible pride and never hesitated to put my life on the line for the defense of my country. Tragically, I do not feel the same sense of pride as I did a decade ago when people almost kissed our hands when they saw us in uniform in a public place. Today, the tables have turned. People have visible contempt for us and our uniform. Since, in some small way, I share the responsibility of this metamorphosis, I do not feel proud wearing this uniform anymore.

Mr. President, I live in Islamabad, and every day my exit from GHQ brings me on an intercept course with the Corps Commander also going home. But there is a difference. The gallant men of God, who are under oath to defend the people, the property, and the frontiers of this country, travel with outriders on motorcycles; red beacons flashing and sirens screaming to herald the approaching cavalcade. In the meanwhile, all citizens on foot or in transports at the T-junction from GHQ to the old President House are shooed off the road to clear the path for the defenders of Pakistan. This is not the way defenders should conduct themselves amongst their own people. I think that we have ceased to sense their ire that ordinary citizens feel at such intimidation."

Retirement

Following the incident, several GHQ colleagues visited Sajad, cautioning him about impending trouble and a grim future. While he was in service, he had the opportunity to take a job in the PIA which he writes seemed like history after the confrontation with Zia.

Chief of General Staff Mian Afzaal expressed disappointment, asserting that Sajad had jeopardized a promising career in the air force. Unfazed, Sajad affirmed his readiness to challenge despots for principles. Growing disillusionment with Zia's rule and absolute power led him to break free from the air force obsession, anticipating a new chapter outside.

Sajad encountered Air Chief Anwar Shamim at the Islamabad Club, where he declined the offer to lead PAF Base Masroor, citing unease after confronting Zia-ul-Haq. Confident in his ability to navigate an uncertain future, Sajad states he emphasized reliance on destiny and faith in Allah. The Chief acknowledged Sajad's resilience, foreseeing a path to ascend or exit. Sajad chose to exit.

This marked the end of an eventful fighter pilot career. Leaving the PAF in May 1980, he harbored no regrets, envisioning a space for the younger generation. Noting that he gratefully declined facilities given to retired personnel, he recalls embarking on a new life with just Rs. 17,000 (equivalent to Rs. 87,000 or US$300 in 2021) in his bank account and a 1970 Left-hand Drive Toyota.

Reaction to Abbottabad raid

Main article: Reactions to the killing of Osama bin Laden

Sajad stated that it was impossible for the Pakistan Armed Forces to not know of American jets coming into Pakistan to conduct the raid on Osama bin Laden. He referred to the Government of Pakistan as cowards for letting the sovereignty of Pakistan be violated, stating that this selling of sovereignty was first done by Ayub Khan who didn't allow Asghar Khan to shoot down Indian Air Force jets in fear of a war arising between the two countries.

Commemorations

In several noteworthy endorsements, various individuals, including Pushpinder Singh Chopra, state that, "Sajad Haider is the real and forever hero of the 1965 air war."

"Sajad Haider is one of the gallant few who helped save Pakistan in 1965" — Former C-in-C of the PAF, Air Marshal Asghar Khan

"As Chief of Operations during the 1965 war, I can say Squadron Leader Sajad Haider emerged as one of the outstanding commanders. Under his able and inspiring leadership, No. 19 Squadron's contribution was second to none and at times beyond all expectations. Whenever there was a difficult task to be carried out effectively, I always called upon No. 19 Squadron to do it and it was always done in the best traditions of the Pakistan Air Force." — Former C-in-C of the PAF, Air Marshal Abdur Rahim Khan

"Squadron Leader SS Haider led the PAF raid at 1600 hours. After his earlier successful raid on Pathankot, Haider chose Srinagar, as it was the only airfield within range of his Sabres from Peshawar. As usual, no warning was available to the defences until the Sabres were almost overhead. Haider and his wingman attacked 2 Dakotas parked near the ATC. Both aircraft had to be written off. The other 2 Sabres strafed and thoroughly shot up a Caribou parked on the apron ahead of the terminal. A Sabre hit and damaged by the Ack-Ack was trailing flames as all 4 Sabres disappeared over the mountains, heading back for home. It seemed unlikely that the damaged Sabre would make it back to the air in the near future. The raid netted the Pakistanis three aircraft destroyed on the ground, one of which belonged to the IAF. One of the Dakotas belonged to the civilian Indian Airlines Corporation. The Caribou belonged to the Royal Canadian Air Force contingent of the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan." — PVS Jagan Mohan, The India-Pakistan Air War of 1965

"This book (Flight of the Falcon) is the result of Sajad Haider's relentless pursuit to ferret out the truth of Pakistan's military adventures and the adventurers who threw the nation into wars which proved costly in the lives of the brave men and devastating for the nation." — Professor Khwaja Masud

"A brother and mentor, Sajad Haider inspired me in the very incipient stage of my career to always 'aim high', a lesson I never forgot and pursued with vigor. Surely then I owe him much for what Allah bestowed on me later." — Former CAS of the PAF, ACM Abbas Khattak

"Sajad Haider is a flamboyant character with a quick wit and irrepressible daring. He was always given to exercise initiative beyond his terms of reference. This made him controversial but stood him in good stead in battle. He is therefore in a position to make iconoclastic revelations. Some of these needed highlighting as they bear on the unstable state that this country has become... The reader will be well served with fresh and candid accounts of some of the major events of the last fifty years now appearing in a different light devoid of the embellishments of those times. In the long run the truth prevails." — Air Vice Marshal Sadruddin Mohammad Hossain

"Just after Zia grabbed power he gave a 'pep' talk... why he had carried out his coup. The audience listened in stony silence except for one, A Cdre Haider, who in 1965 had achieved such spectacular successes. Haider got up and said, 'Sir, what you have just said is what all military dictators have said... they try to hang on to power forever'. The distinguished military career of A Cdre Sajad Haider thus ended abruptly." — Mansoor Shah, author of The Gold Bird

Publications

• Wing Commander Syed Sajjad Haider, S.J. (1969). "The Story Behind the Tank Busters". Illustrated Weekly of Pakistan: Volume 21, Issues 40-52. Pakistan Herald Publications.
• Haider, S Sajad (2009). FLIGHT OF THE FALCON: Demolishing myths of Indo-Pak wars 1965 & 1971 - Story of a Fighter Pilot. Vanguard Publications. ISBN 9789694025261.
• Haider, S Sajad (2 July 2009). "Arshad Sami". The Nation.
• "Sajjad's interview in PAF in Defence of Lahore". Defence Journal. September 2001. Archived from the original on 18 August 2016.

Effective dates of promotion

Insignia	Rank	Date
	Air Commodore	24 March 1976
	Group Captain	September 1971
	Wing Commander	June 1967
	Squadron Leader	October 1963
	Flight Lieutenant	1958
	Flying Officer	October 1953
	Pilot Officer	13 June 1953

Awards and decorations

PAF GD(P) Badge RED (More than 4000 Flying Hours)
Golden Eagle Award (Pakistan) (Exceptional Fighter Pilot) (Youngest & the first post-partition to be awarded) 1958
Top Gun Fighter Leaders' School Sword (Instructor & Flight Commander)
Sitara-e-Jurat (Star of Courage) 1965 War
Tamgha-e-Qayam-e-Jamhuria (Republic Commemoration Medal) 1956	Tamgha-e-Diffa (Defence Medal) 1965 War Clasp 1971 War Clasp	Sitara-e-Harb 1965 War (War Star 1965)		Sitara-e-Harb 1971 War (War Star 1971)
Tamgha-e-Jang 1965 War (War Medal 1965)		Tamgha-e-Jang 1971 War (War Medal 1971)	Tamgha-e-Sad Saala Jashan-e-Wiladat-e-Quaid-e-Azam (100th Birth Anniversary of Jinnah) 1976	Hijri Tamgha (Hijri Medal) 1979