Tokyo teachers sue over anthem singing

TOKYO, Jan. 30 (UPI) -- More than 200 Tokyo teachers Friday sued the Tokyo education board over a rule that requires them to sing Japan's national anthem.

The teachers claimed it was unconstitutional to be forced to stand and sing the "Kimigayo" anthem at school ceremonies, Kyodo News reported.

The 228-strong group said the lawsuit, filed with the Tokyo District Court, was an effort to confirm they are not obliged to sing the anthem or stand facing the Hinomaru flag.

They said the education board's order violates constitutional guarantees of freedom of thought and conscience. They also demanded that the board not punish them for disobeying the order.