Mumbai: Former Union Minister Dilip Dhakne, aged 86, passed away on Thursday night while receiving treatment for pneumonia at a private hospital in Ahmednagar. His final rites are scheduled to take place in his native village, Pagori Pimpalgaon, located in the Pathardi tehsil of Ahmednagar district on Saturday. Dilip Dhakne had a distinguished political career, serving as the Minister of State for Energy in the Union government during Chandra Shekhar's leadership. He also held ministerial positions within the Maharashtra state government, where he managed portfolios related to public works and rural development. In addition to his roles in government, Dhakne was a prominent figure in the Janata Dal and served as the state unit president. He played a vital role in the state assembly, serving as the Leader of the Opposition and Deputy Speaker of the House. BJP Criticizes Shashi Tharoor for Participating in Rally Supporting Palestine India to Fight Legal Battle for Release of Sailors Sentenced to Death in Qatar Srinagar's Jamia Masjid Remains Closed for Friday Prayers