Resolution introduced in US Congress seeking 'genocide' recognition for 1971 atrocities

A resolution has been introduced in the US Congress seeking formal recognition of the atrocities committed by Pakistani forces during Bangladesh's Liberation War in 1971 as 'genocide'.

The resolution was presented on Friday by Greg Landsman, a Democratic Congress member from Ohio. It is currently under review by the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

The resolution outlines the historical context of 1971, stating that widespread killings, sexual violence and systematic oppression of religious minorities took place in Bangladesh during that time.

According to GovTrack, a US legislative tracking website, the resolution draws on documents from then-US officials, reports from international media, and information from various international organisations.

It notes that despite the Awami League, led by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, winning an absolute majority in the 1970 general election, the Pakistani military junta refused to transfer power. In continuation of this, on the night of March 25, 1971, Pakistani forces launched a crackdown on unarmed Bengalis under 'Operation Searchlight'.

The resolution references a historic message sent by Archer K Blood, then US Consul General in Dhaka, where he described the violence as a 'selective genocide'. It also cites reports by journalist Anthony Mascarenhas and findings from a subcommittee led by US Senator Edward M Kennedy, which documented atrocities against minorities, particularly the Hindu community.

The resolution further states that a study by the International Commission of Jurists found conclusive evidence of targeted killings based on religious identity.

While passage of the resolution would not have the force of law, it is considered a significant step towards international recognition of the 1971 atrocities as 'genocide'. Proponents believe such recognition is crucial for preserving historical truth and preventing future crimes against humanity.