The upper house of the Japanese parliament has passed a bill that punishes the intentional damage to the national flag. It was jointly developed by the two ruling coalition parties in alliance with the two opposition parties, and the vote was broadcast live on the parliament's website.
The passed bill provides for up to two years in prison or a fine of up to 200,000 yen (less than $1,300) for the complete or partial destruction, burning or tearing of the flag. During the discussion, the penal provision for the distribution of videos desecrating the state flag on social networks was removed, a condition set by two small opposition parties that supported the bill. The passage of this bill is part of a coalition agreement between the ruling Liberal Democratic Party and its junior partner, the Japan Restoration Society.
They form the majority in the lower house.
