Washington, Feb. 7: The acquittal of Pakistani scientist Dr. A. Q. Khan from charges of nuclear proliferation may force the United States to consider the assistance and aid being provided to Pakistan.

According to Democratic Representative Howard Berman, the decision to set Khan free, who had been under house arrest for five years, was `very alarming', and the US will certainly take into account the decision while deciding aid to Islamabad.

"Congress will take this into account as we review and create legislation on US-Pakistan relations and the circumstances under which US assistance is provided to Islamabad," The News quoted Berman, as saying.

Concerned about the release of the disgraced Pak scientist, Berman said that he (A. Q. Khan) may resume his nefarious activities through his illegal network.

He also feared the nuclear weapons falling into the hands of militants which can have far-reaching effects on the world peace.

"I am deeply concerned that, by releasing him, the Pakistani government may in effect be giving him license to resume, perhaps directly, his past actions to aid, abet and profit from the spread of nuclear weapons," Berman said. (ANI)