A new inquiry into Britain's grooming gangs scandal has reignited debate over the role of religion and ethnicity in sexual exploitation cases after UK MP Rupert Lowe cited survivor testimonies alleging that race and faith were used to justify abuse.

Speaking about the findings of the inquiry, Lowe said several victims reported being humiliated because they were white and Christian. According to testimonies presented by the MP, some perpetrators drew comparisons between white girls and Muslim girls, claiming the latter had greater dignity and moral value.

Reading from one victim's testimony, Lowe said, "Comments were constantly made suggesting that white girls, the Christian girls, were viewed as having fewer morals or lower values, whereas Muslim girls were described by some of the men as having dignity and higher moral standing."

The survivor said such remarks were used to justify the abuse and make victims feel powerless.

The issue has drawn fresh attention after Lowe claimed the inquiry found a clear connection between grooming gang activity and groups of predominantly Pakistani Muslim men involved in exploitation cases.

"Our inquiry report proves that without doubt there is an undeniable link between religion and the rape gangs. Islam. As a country, we need to find the courage to finally say so," Lowe said.

"The mass rape of vulnerable working class white girls by gangs of primarily Pakistani Muslim men is pure unfettered evil," he added.

According to Lowe, the report examines how the abuse occurred, why authorities failed to stop it in several cases, and what measures are needed to prevent similar crimes in the future.

The MP also vowed to pursue legal action against those identified through the inquiry. In a post on X, Lowe said he intends to use parliamentary privilege to name alleged perpetrators and people accused of enabling the abuse.

"I intend to use my parliamentary privilege to name perpetrators and their enablers in the chamber," Lowe wrote.

He said any such move would be carried out carefully and in consultation with lawyers to ensure ongoing or future criminal cases are not affected.

Lowe also revealed that his team is working with authorities to help reopen cases where possible, while simultaneously exploring private prosecutions and civil litigation.

"We have had enough talk, now we need to act. Our aim is straightforward. Put people in prison. Deliver justice. Finally," he said. "Our aim is straightforward. Put people in prison. Deliver justice. Finally."

The report argues that failures by institutions allowed abuse to continue for years in some communities and says stronger action is needed to protect vulnerable children.

Lowe has also called for the deportation of offenders who are not British citizens, saying those responsible must face the full force of the law.

With ANI inputs