Sharif softens stand on Musharraf''s trial following Saudi snub - India News and Travel Times Provides India-centric and other News and Features

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, it seems, has dropped the idea of insisting on former President General Pervez Musharraf's trial under high treason charges, as the issue did not feature in the much touted talks between Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari. During their talks, which continued for over 90 minutes, both the leaders hardly discussed matters pertaining to Musharraf's trial, which clearly suggests that the former general would not face any opposition when he returns back home. One of Musharraf's close ally disclosed that there has been a sea change in Sharif's attitude regarding the issue following his Saudi visit last month. "He is no more enthusiastic about his demand for the former military ruler's accountability," The News quoted him, as saying on conditions of anonymity. When enquired about whether Musharraf's trial was actually discussed in the meeting or not, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) senator Raja Muhammad Zafarul Haq said Sharif told Zardari that Musharraf should have been punished for his dubious actions. " Mian Sahib (Sharif) made mention of Musharraf during his talks with President Zardari and maintained had he been held accountable, this would have ended the possibility of future military interventions," Haq said. " This was the only reference made to the former president during the talks," he added.