Recognizing the Bangladesh Genocide of 1971 and protection of religious minorities in Bangladesh.
- Bill Number
- H.Res. 1130
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 2
- Policy Area
- International Affairs
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2026-03-20: Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
- Last Updated
- 2026-04-17T08:07:01Z
AI-Generated Summary
Summary of H. Res. 1130
Purpose
This resolution seeks to formally recognize the mass atrocities committed in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) starting March 25, 1971, as genocide and war crimes. It focuses on the targeting of ethnic Bengalis, especially Hindu religious minorities, by Pakistani forces and allied groups. The measure aims to document these events for historical record, honor victims, and urge the U.S. President to classify them as crimes against humanity, war crimes, and genocide.
Key Provisions
- Condemns the Pakistani Armed Forces' actions on March 25, 1971, including mass killings, rapes, and attacks on civilians.
- Acknowledges that while ethnic Bengalis of all backgrounds were killed, Hindu minorities faced specific targeting through slaughter, forced conversions, rape, and expulsion.
- States that entire ethnic or religious groups should not be held responsible for crimes by some members.
- Calls on the U.S. President to officially recognize the 1971 events against ethnic Bengali Hindus as crimes against humanity, war crimes, and genocide.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This resolution introduces no changes to U.S. law, as it is a non-binding expression of congressional opinion rather than legislation that amends statutes or creates new requirements.
Potential Impacts
- On government agencies: It may influence the State Department and executive branch to adjust diplomatic statements or policies regarding historical accountability in South Asia.
- On citizens: Raises awareness among U.S. citizens about the 1971 events, potentially affecting public discourse or advocacy by diaspora communities.
- On international relations: Could strain ties with Pakistan while strengthening relations with Bangladesh, and signal U.S. support for protecting religious minorities abroad.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- U.S. House of Representatives and the executive branch (including the President).
- Government and people of Bangladesh and Pakistan.
- Religious minority communities, particularly Hindus, in Bangladesh and their descendants.
- International human rights organizations and survivors' advocates.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
The resolution references the U.N. Genocide Convention to frame the 1971 events but carries no legal enforcement power. Politically, it highlights U.S. congressional views on historical accountability, which may encourage similar recognitions in other contexts or influence foreign policy debates. Constitutionally, it aligns with Congress's role in foreign affairs oversight without overriding executive authority.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Cosponsors (1)
Recent Actions
- 2026-03-20: Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
- 2026-03-20: Submitted in House
- 2026-03-20: Submitted in House
Bill Versions
- Recognizing the Bangladesh Genocide of 1971 and protection of religious minorities in Bangladesh. — issued 2026-03-20 — PDF (5 pages)