The younger sister of Pakistani film star Meera, Shaista Abbas, a lawyer by profession, has died of cancer in a London hospital after years of illness. Meera confirmed the death while speaking from New York, saying Shaista had been receiving treatment at a hospital in London. Burial is set to take place in London.
Meera said she had repeatedly asked the British High Commission for a visa on humanitarian grounds, pointing to her sister’s worsening health. No visa was granted.
Family says Shaista’s health declined over past year
Another sister, Aqsa Abbas, who lives in Europe, also confirmed the death. She said Shaista had been in hospital for the past two months, and had been admitted repeatedly over the previous year as her condition deteriorated.
Each time her health improved, Shaista was discharged, Aqsa said. Shaista is survived by a young daughter, and Meera has decided to adopt her niece. Showbiz personalities and fans have expressed grief and offered condolences to the family.
