A ROW has erupted between two influential ethnic minority organisations in Blackburn.

Pakistan Welfare Association chairman Ajaib Hussain claimed: "For more than two years we have received absolutely no support from the Ethnic Minority Development Association.

"It is supposed to be an umbrella organisation for all the ethnic minority groups in Blackburn but they have done nothing for us."

"We have tried to talk to EMDA but they will not even discuss the problem with us."

But EMDA chairman Abdul Khaliq Choudry said: "Recently a rift has arisen within the PWA but it is not our role to interfere."

Mr Choudry added: "EMDA is providing services to all the ethnic minority community in Blackburn."

Blackburn with Darwen Council leader Malcolm Doherty said he hoped the recent appointment of a development officer at EMDA would "improve" the situation.

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