Blackburn Conservative Councillor Altaf 'Tiger' Patel, the area's sole Muslim representative from the Conservative Party, expressed his strong disapproval of government officials' language and officially severed ties with the party.
The Blackburn Conservative Association revealed that Patel had chosen to resign after being informed of his suspension by the party, citing a mismatch between his views and the party's stance.
Cllr Patel's surprising announcement took place amid a large pro-Palestine peace rally on the steps of Blackburn Town Hall, where he received resounding applause. During the reading of his resignation letter, he conveyed his decision with a heavy heart, emphasizing his deep sense of moral responsibility. Patel had been a member of the Conservative Party for a significant portion of his life.
He explained that his most profound concern revolved around the Conservative Party's unwavering and unconditional support for Israel, which, in his view, lacked the necessary nuance and sensitivity to comprehend the prolonged suffering endured by the Palestinian people.
It is worth noting that the entire Muslim community in Blackburn has expressed overwhelming support for Tiger Patel's decision, which they see as a powerful act of solidarity with the people of Palestine.
