AQ Khan

Abdul Qadeer Khan, commonly known as AQ Khan, is a Pakistani nuclear scientist and metallurgical engineer who is widely regarded as the father of Pakistan's nuclear program. Born on April 1, 1936, Khan played a pivotal role in developing Pakistan's nuclear capabilities, which culminated in the country's first successful nuclear tests in 1998. His work has made Pakistan the only Islamic nuclear power. However, his legacy is marred by controversies surrounding nuclear proliferation, as he was implicated in a global nuclear smuggling network that provided technology and materials to countries like Iran and North Korea. After confessing to unauthorized proliferation activities, he was placed under house arrest in 2004 but remains a controversial and significant figure in discussions about nuclear policy in South Asia.