Meera’s sister dies of cancer in London, actress says UK denied her visa

ISLAMABAD: Pakistani film star Meera’s younger sister, Shaista Abbas, a lawyer by profession, has died of cancer at a hospital in London after battling the disease for several years.

Meera confirmed her sister’s death while speaking to Geo News from New York, saying Shaista had been undergoing treatment at a London hospital. She will be buried in London.

Expressing grief over her loss, Meera said she had repeatedly appealed to the British High Commission for a visa on humanitarian grounds, citing her sister’s deteriorating health, but was not granted one.

Meera and Shaista’s other sister, Aqsa Abbas, who lives in Europe, also confirmed the death, saying Shaista had been hospitalised for the past two months.

Before that, Shaista had repeatedly been admitted to hospital over the past year as her condition deteriorated, and was discharged whenever her health improved, Aqsa said.

Shaista is survived by a young daughter. Meera has decided to adopt her niece following her sister’s death.

Showbiz personalities and fans have expressed grief over Shaista’s death and extended their condolences to the family.