AQ Khan ordered to refrain from comments on atomic programme

LHC orders Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan to refrain from comments on the atomic programme during hearings on his protocol.

The Lahore High Court (LHC) has ordered Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan to refrain from comments on the country's atomic programme.

The court had called for a reply from the federal government on a petition challenging the alleged restriction on the movement of the nuclear scientist in violation of the court order. The court was told that Dr Khan discusses sensitive nuclear issues with the media.

It was pleaded that if Dr Khan ensures not to discuss these things publicly, then his movement will not be restricted. The Lahore High Court in turn has asked Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan not to discuss sensitive issues openly. The court also asked the government not to restrict his movement as he is a free citizen.

In September, the LHC had restored the restored the security protocol of Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan. Earlier, Dr Qadeer had claimed that the protocol given to him by the Federation was in violation of fundamental rights as he had been barred from meeting his relatives, political leaders or media representatives.

The Foreign Office had earlier ruled out foreign access to Dr Khan in a clear rebuff to a top US diplomat who had unveiled a fresh demand for access to the nuclear scientists.