Islamabad, Mar 12: The continued detention of top nuclear scientist A Q Khan has led his wife Henny Khan to challenge the interim Government and President Pervez Musharraf on the issue.

In her first strongly-worded statement, Henny Khan said: “The time for "low-profile, patriotism and national interest" is over and if my husband's situation does not change, we will undertake whatever action we deem necessary.”

According to The News, Khan’s family could embarrass the government by revealing details concealed so far by the military regime.

The Khan’s family is believed to have refused to act in a low-profile mode in the name of patriotism.

Henny Khan has reportedly also handed over a list of demands to the present and future government, stating, "We are asking that A Q Khan should be allowed to lead a normal life, attend his NGO office, meet his friends, take his family out for dinner and be given the freedom that was promised by Gen Musharraf."

In recent months, Dina Khan, A Q Khan’s daughter, defended her father in the media by giving his side of the story on important issues.

After years of reclusion, the family seems to have decided to challenge all the claims and accusations against A Q Khan and start confronting the government. The family has now vowed that it would use all available means to secure the freedom of Khan who has been in detention since January 2004.

"Sources in the Strategic Plans Division however have hinted that it is imperative to keep A Q Khan in protective custody for his safety and for the national security.”

"Is he being kept in protective custody for his own safety, even though there does not seem to be a dearth of those who wish him ill?" Henny retorted. (ANI)