This House resolution condemns atrocities carried out by the Pakistani Armed Forces and allied Islamist groups in what is now Bangladesh beginning March 25, 1971. The text says many civilians were killed, citing estimates in the range of tens to hundreds of thousands, and states that over 200,000 women were raped. It says Hindus were specifically targeted for mass killing, rape, forced conversion, and expulsion. The resolution cites U.S. diplomatic reports (including telegrams by Consul General Archer Blood), a 1971 Senate subcommittee report, and a 1972 International Commission of Jurists study. It refers to the United Nations Genocide Convention definition. The House resolution condemns the events, recognizes that entire groups are not responsible for crimes of their members, and calls on the President to recognize these atrocities as crimes against humanity, war crimes, and genocide.
The resolution expresses the House of Representatives' official view and asks the President to recognize the 1971 atrocities as crimes against humanity, war crimes, and genocide. The text does not establish new programs, spending, or criminal penalties. It was introduced on March 20, 2026, and referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
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Supporters say it is important to recall and document crimes to preserve victims' memory and to help deter future atrocities. They point to diplomatic cables, journalistic accounts, and investigations that describe mass killings and targeted attacks on Hindus and other Bengalis. They seek formal U.S. recognition and condemnation of the events.
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