Full Breakdown
Controversy Surrounds Baroness Ayesha Hazarika's Remarks on Grooming Gangs
4/2/2026, 7:43:31 PM
Exchange on Times Radio Sparks Outrage
During a recent episode of Times Radio's Weekend Drivetime, Baroness Ayesha Hazarika engaged in a controversial exchange with journalist Stig Abell regarding grooming gangs in the UK. Hazarika humorously referred to herself as "an enabler," to which Abell responded, "Yeah, you are. A groomer!" Hazarika retorted, "Oh my god. Just because I'm Muslim. Stop it." This light-hearted banter, which included laughter, has drawn significant backlash from various quarters, with critics labeling it as inappropriate given the serious nature of the topic.
Public Reaction and Criticism
The exchange has prompted widespread condemnation on social media. Marilyn Hawes, founder and CEO of Freedom from Abuse, expressed her disbelief, calling the remarks "hideous" and indicative of a disconnect from the realities faced by victims of grooming gangs. Robbie Moore, MP for Keighley and Ilkley, criticized the comments as "absolutely disgraceful," emphasizing the need for serious discourse on the issue. Many social media users echoed this sentiment, with one individual stating that if the races were reversed, Hazarika would not have dared to laugh about such a serious matter. Complaints have also been lodged with Ofcom, urging an investigation into the incident.
Background on Grooming Gangs in the UK
Grooming gangs have been a significant issue in the UK, with notorious cases emerging from towns such as Rotherham, Rochdale, Telford, Oxford, and Oldham. Victims, often young teenagers, have faced systemic failures from local authorities and police, who have been criticized for their inaction due to fears of being labeled racist. A national inquiry, led by Baroness Anne Longfield, was initiated to examine the role of ethnicity, culture, and religion in these scandals, with findings expected to be published progressively until its conclusion in March 2029.
Inquiry's Scope and Powers
The inquiry, which began on March 31, 2025, has the authority to compel witnesses and documents, with any evidence of professional misconduct referred to Operation Beaconport, a national policing operation reviewing previously closed investigations. The inquiry is budgeted at £65 million and aims to address the systemic issues that have allowed grooming gangs to operate unchecked for years.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to the backlash, Baroness Hazarika has not publicly commented on the incident. However, the inquiry into grooming gangs continues to be a critical national issue, with many advocating for a serious and respectful dialogue surrounding the topic.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is typical of privileged people who have no idea about the reality of this issue - they are not part of the real world.” — Marilyn Hawes, Founder, Freedom from Abuse
- “Absolutely disgraceful ‘joking’ commentary by @ayeshahazarika about one of the biggest national scandals which has haunted communities like mine for far too long.” — Robbie Moore, MP for Keighley and Ilkley
- “If the races were reversed, Labour Peer Ayesha Hazarika wouldn’t dare laugh about it.” — Social Media User
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in addressing the sensitive issue of grooming gangs in the UK, as well as the need for accountability and serious discussion surrounding the topic.
