In June 2011, Osaka Prefecture became the first prefecture to enact a by-law to make it obligatory for teachers at prefectural schools to stand up and sing the national anthem, "Kimigayo," at school ceremonies, although it did not provide for punishment. Osaka Ishin-no Kai (Osaka reform association), a local party led by then Gov. Toru Hashimoto, took the initiative in pushing through the legislation. Mr. Hashimoto, now the mayor of Osaka, strongly insists that public school teachers should stand up and sing "Kimigayo" at school ceremonies.

On Feb. 28, the Osaka city assembly passed a similar by-law, applying to city school teachers with the support of Osaka Ishin-no Kai, the Liberal Democratic Party and Komeito.

Mr. Hashimoto denounced teachers who refuse to sing "Kimigayo," saying that their refusal to follow rules is "an act of blaspheming against democracy." But he should understand that for some teachers, singing "Kimigayo," associated by some people with Japan's past militarism, is a matter of conscience. Forcing them to sing the anthem would run counter to the principle of democracy. He also should realize that some teachers are repulsed by the local governments' attempt to control their behavior through legislation.