In order to decide whether to issue a dissolution order to the former Unification Church, the Tokyo District Court will hold a hearing on the 22nd to hear opinions from both the government and the church.
This is the first time that a country and the church, which are in direct conflict with each other, are directly exchanging arguments, and according to people involved, the church's president and others will give their opinions.
On the afternoon of the 22nd, the Tokyo District Court will conduct a procedure called an ``inquiry'' regarding the dissolution order that the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology requested for the religious group last October, and will hear opinions from both the government and the religious group.
The ``hearing'' will be closed to the public, and according to those involved, the church's president, Tomihiro Tanaka, will make a statement, as well as discuss how to proceed with the hearing.
Based on interviews with more than 170 victims, the government has argued that ``the cult's actions, such as large donations and inspirational marketing, are illegal acts under civil law, and the damage caused is enormous.''
On the other hand, the religious group is taking a full-on stance to fight back, saying, ``The number of requests for refunds and complaints has decreased significantly and does not meet the requirements for a dissolution order.This is a serious situation not only in terms of religious freedom but also in terms of human rights.'' This will be the first time these claims can be directly exchanged after the request for a dissolution order.
This is the third case in which an administrative agency has requested a dissolution order on the basis of violation of laws and regulations, following Aum Shinrikyo and Myokakuji Temple, but this is the first time that a dissolution order has been requested on the basis of a civil law tort, and future proceedings will be decided. The direction will be watched.