New Delhi, Aug 05: The financial plight of octogenarian Shehnai maestro and holder of the coveted Bharat Ratna, Ustad Bismillah Khan, now in Varanasi, was highlighted in the Lok Sabha today. Raising the issue during zero hour, Ram Vilas Paswas, Lok Janashakti, said he had recently met the Shehnai exponent who had spoken about his financial difficulties. Khan has also written to the Prime Minister.

Paswan said when he was the Railway Minister he had given a special rail pass to khan but this had been later withdrawn. Khan also wants government assistance to his four disciples, Paswan said asking the Centre to consider the issue sympathetically.

BJP chief whip V K Malhotra said whatever financial problems are being faced by khan would be looked into.

Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee said each MP could contribute some amount for khan's welfare.

Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Bhavna Chikalia said members' concerns, including that of restoration of the rail pass, would be conveyed to the Prime Minister. Bureau Report