Social News(2025/03/07)
Aomori Hospital Murder Cover-Up: Elderly "Death Certificate Doctor" Also Covers Up
2025-03-07 23:11:00
In a case where the former director and others were arrested for attempting to cover up a murder case at a hospital in Hachinohe City, Aomori Prefecture, the prefecture and city issued a recommendation to the hospital on the 7th to make improvements, after an on-site inspection of the hospital revealed that the actual working hours of some doctors did not match the records and that several hospital rooms had been accepting more patients than their capacity.
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Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications to request NHK to "report and explain on protection of Japanese nationals"
2025-03-07 22:37:00
On the 7th, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications notified NHK that it would request that the broadcaster report and explain matters related to the protection of the lives and property of Japanese nationals in its international broadcasts and the internet distribution of its programs in the new fiscal year.
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After-school childcare clubs' extended operating hours allowance payment does not meet 94% requirement
2025-03-07 22:23:00
The Board of Audit investigated a system that provides additional subsidies to after-school childcare clubs that accept children for long periods on weekdays in order to eliminate the so-called "wall for first graders" that occurs when both parents work, and found that 94% of those eligible for the subsidy did not meet the eligibility requirements. The Agency for Children and Families has decided to revise the system from April due to insufficient publicity from the national government regarding the opening hours.
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Aomori Hospital Murder Cover-Up: Elderly "Death Certificate Doctor" Also Covers Up
2025-03-07 22:03:00
In a case where the former director and others were arrested for attempting to cover up a murder case at a hospital in Hachinohe City, Aomori Prefecture, the prefecture and city issued a recommendation to the hospital on the 7th to make improvements, after an on-site inspection of the hospital revealed that the actual working hours of some doctors did not match the records and that several hospital rooms had been accepting more patients than their capacity.
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Not recognizing same-sex marriage is unconstitutional: Nagoya High Court rules case unconstitutional for fourth time
2025-03-07 22:01:00
In a case where it was disputed whether not recognizing same-sex marriage violates the Constitution, the Nagoya High Court, on the second instance, ruled that it does violate the Constitution, stating that "the distinction that denies same-sex couples access to the legal marriage system is discriminatory treatment based on sexual orientation." This is the fourth such case to be decided by the second instance, and all have found it to be "unconstitutional."
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"Himeji city council member's post violates political ethics standards, deserves to be recommended for resignation" Political Ethics Committee
2025-03-07 22:00:00
The Himeji City Council's Political Ethics Review Committee has compiled a report stating that a Himeji City Council member's social media posts regarding the Hyogo Prefectural gubernatorial election and other matters violated an ordinance that sets out standards of political ethics, and stating that "it is appropriate to recommend that the member resign from his position as a council member."
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Women who left the workforce due to childcare etc. discuss how to rebuild their careers
2025-03-07 21:50:00
Ahead of International Women's Day on March 8th, an event was held in Tokyo to discuss how women who have left the workforce for childcare or other reasons can re-build their careers.
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Asahikawa: 19-year-old defendant sentenced to 23 years in prison for murdering high school girl
2025-03-07 20:00:00
A defendant, aged 19 at the time, who was accused of killing a 17-year-old high school girl by pushing her off a bridge into a river in a valley in Asahikawa, Hokkaido, in April last year, was sentenced to 23 years in prison by the Asahikawa District Court, which said it was "clear that he was an active participant in the crime."
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22-year-old man arrested for abandoning a man's body in front of a clinic not indicted by Chiba District Public Prosecutor's Office
2025-03-07 19:40:00
On the 7th, prosecutors decided not to indict a 22-year-old man who was arrested for abandoning a man's body in front of a clinic in Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture in August last year.
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Tokyo Air Raid Victims' Temporary Burial Site Photographs Obtained
2025-03-07 19:36:00
The 10th of this month marks 80 years since the Great Tokyo Air Raid. Most of the 100,000 victims were temporarily buried without their identities known immediately after the raid, and NHK has obtained photos of the burial sites for the first time. Experts point out that these temporary burials are "one of the reasons why the postwar period passed without anyone knowing what happened to the people who died."
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Prime Minister Ishiba reveals plan to designate Ofunato forest fire as "extremely severe disaster"
2025-03-07 19:30:00
Regarding the forest fire in Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture, Prime Minister Ishiba stated that due to the extensive damage caused, the fire will be designated a "severe disaster," meaning that the national government will provide financial support for the costs of recovery.
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Two Kanagawa Prefectural Police officers indicted for sexually harassing female colleagues
2025-03-07 19:25:00
Two police officers from the Kanagawa Prefectural Police have been referred to prosecutors on suspicion of sexual harassment, including groping a female colleague.
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Ofunato elementary and junior high schools to resume classes from the 10th after evacuation orders were lifted due to forest fires
2025-03-07 19:14:00
Two elementary schools and one junior high school in Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture, which have been closed since last month due to forest fires, will resume classes from the 10th.
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Peach Aviation submits measures to prevent recurrence of drinking problems
2025-03-07 19:03:00
Peach Aviation, an airline that received a severe administrative warning from the government for two pilots flying without conducting alcohol tests, has submitted measures to prevent recurrence to the government, including a strong emphasis on safety and modifying its system so that flights will not be allowed to depart unless the pilots pass an alcohol test.
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Nankai Trough megathrust earthquake possibility assessment: "No particular changes observed"
2025-03-07 19:02:00
A regular review committee was held to evaluate the possibility of a major earthquake occurring in the Nankai Trough, and the committee concluded that "no particular changes have been observed."
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Norovirus food poisoning outbreak in Gifu Prefecture, 320 people sickened, 1 person died
2025-03-07 18:59:00
320 people who ate bento lunches prepared by a catering company in Ginan Town, Gifu Prefecture, complained of symptoms such as diarrhea, and one man in his 40s died. The company has been banned from operating as a case of mass food poisoning caused by norovirus, and the prefecture and others are currently investigating the details of the incident.
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Iwate Ofunato forest fire: Evacuation shelters open where people can stay indoors with their pets
2025-03-07 18:53:00
In response to the forest fire that broke out in Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture, the city has worked with surrounding municipalities to open evacuation shelters where people can stay indoors with their pets, and is encouraging people to use them on its website and other means.
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Over 800 loaves of bread delivered free of charge to Ofunato forest fire evacuation center
2025-03-07 18:53:00
In response to the ongoing forest fires in Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture, over 800 sweet and savory breads were delivered free of charge to evacuation centers in the city on the 7th.
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Ofunato forest fire evacuation orders lifted in some areas
2025-03-07 18:48:00
In the forest fire that broke out in Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture, the city lifted the evacuation order for some areas on the Ofunato Bay side on the morning of the 7th, saying that there was no longer any risk of the fire spreading, and residents who had returned to their homes for the first time in a long time expressed relief. However, evacuation orders remain in place for 11% of the city's residents, and firefighting efforts are continuing to put the fire out.
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Three workers die during sewer construction in Oga, Akita Prefecture, possibly due to inhaling toxic gas
2025-03-07 18:47:00
On the morning of the 7th, three workers working on a sewerage project in Oga City, Akita Prefecture, were found unconscious inside a manhole, and all were later confirmed dead. The prefecture that commissioned the work explained that it was possible that they had inhaled toxic gases that had accumulated in the sewer pipes, and the police are currently investigating the details of the incident.
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Fukuoka High Court rules on disparity in one vote: All 16 cases nationwide are constitutional
2025-03-07 18:45:00
The Fukuoka High Court has ruled that the disparity in the value of one vote in last October's House of Representatives election, which was as large as 2.06 times, does not violate the Constitution, dismissing a lawsuit seeking to invalidate the election. As a result, all 16 lawsuits filed in courts across the country have been ruled "constitutional."
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Transformer explosion at Okayama substation leaves 2 injured; 5,000 homes in the area temporarily without power
2025-03-07 18:40:00
At around 2:30 p.m. on the 7th, a transformer loaded onto a vehicle exploded at a substation in Kita-ku, Okayama City, burning the building and injuring two workers who were taken to the hospital. The fire caused a temporary power outage for 5,000 homes in the surrounding area.
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Ofunato - Houses swept away by tsunami hit by forest fire in new home: "Where should we live?"
2025-03-07 18:39:00
In the midst of the ongoing forest fires in Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture, a woman in her 60s who had moved to a residential area near the mountains in Akasaki Town after her home in the city was washed away in the Great East Japan Earthquake 14 years ago, but who has now been forced to evacuate, expressed her anxiety, saying, "I don't know where I should live."
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Aomori Hospital Murder Cover-Up: Elderly "Death Certificate Doctor" Also Covers Up
2025-03-07 18:38:00
In a case where the former director and others were arrested for attempting to cover up a murder case at a hospital in Hachinohe City, Aomori Prefecture, the prefecture and city issued a recommendation to the hospital on the 7th to make improvements, after an on-site inspection of the hospital revealed that the actual working hours of some doctors did not match the records and that several hospital rooms had been accepting more patients than their capacity.
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Graduation ceremony not held due to Tokyo air raids; classmates reunite for the first time in 80 years to donate certificates
2025-03-07 18:35:00
It will soon be 80 years since the Great Tokyo Air Raid. Two classmates who received their graduation certificates sent by their homeroom teacher at the time, but were unable to hold their graduation ceremony due to the air raids, met again for the first time in 80 years on the 7th.
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Body found in forest fire in Ofunato, Sanriku town, identified as 90-year-old man
2025-03-07 18:35:00
The body found in Ayasato, Sanriku Town following a forest fire in Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture on February 26th has been identified as that of a 90-year-old man.
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Tohoku Shinkansen: Traffic Safety Commission begins investigation; stations remain crowded after coupling operation canceled
2025-03-07 18:31:00
On the 6th, a coupling came off on the Tohoku Shinkansen while it was running in Tokyo, and the National Transport Safety Board has begun an investigation of the vehicle at a JR facility in Miyagi Prefecture. In addition to the structure of the vehicle, they plan to look into the type of maintenance that had been performed. Meanwhile, JR East also canceled all coupled train operations on the 7th, resulting in many trains being cancelled and causing stations and trains to become crowded with passengers. They have also announced that they will cancel all coupled train operations on the 8th and 9th.
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"Think about menstruation as your own problem" exhibition opens in Tokyo from the 8th
2025-03-07 18:29:00
March 8th is International Women's Day, as designated by the United Nations. To coincide with this, an exhibition is planned to be held in Tokyo to encourage women to think about menstrual problems as their own personal issues, and the contents of the exhibition were unveiled on the 7th.
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Not recognizing same-sex marriage is unconstitutional: Nagoya High Court rules case unconstitutional for fourth time
2025-03-07 18:24:00
In a case where it was disputed whether not recognizing same-sex marriage violates the Constitution, the Nagoya High Court, on the second instance, ruled that it does violate the Constitution, stating that "the distinction that denies same-sex couples access to the legal marriage system is discriminatory treatment based on sexual orientation." This is the fourth such case to be decided by the second instance, and all have found it to be "unconstitutional."
TOP
Tohoku Shinkansen: Traffic Safety Commission begins investigation; stations remain crowded after coupling operation canceled
2025-03-07 18:15:00
On the 6th, a coupling came off on the Tohoku Shinkansen while it was running in Tokyo, and the Japan Transport Safety Board has begun an investigation of the vehicle at a JR facility in Miyagi Prefecture. In addition to the structure of the vehicle, they plan to look into the type of maintenance that had been performed. Meanwhile, JR East canceled all coupled train operations on the 7th, with many trains canceled and stations and trains crowded with passengers.
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Two cases divided over police inspector's suicide: Supreme Court rules prefecture liable for damages
2025-03-07 18:09:00
In two conflicting cases in which the family of a male police inspector in his 30s who was the station chief at Shimoda Police Station in Shizuoka Prefecture committed suicide 13 years ago sought compensation from Shizuoka Prefecture, the Supreme Court has ruled that the prefecture should be liable for compensation.
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Agriculture Minister Eto: "It's not the time to rush to buy rice" - Call for calm
2025-03-07 18:06:00
As rice prices continue to rise, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Eto called for calm, saying that consumers are not in a position to rush to buy rice, and indicated that depending on future price trends, the government will consider responses, including releasing more stockpiled rice.
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Aomori Hospital Murder Cover-Up: Elderly "Death Certificate Doctor" Also Covers Up
2025-03-07 17:57:00
In a case where the former director and others were arrested for attempting to cover up a murder case at a hospital in Hachinohe City, Aomori Prefecture, the prefecture and city issued a recommendation to the hospital on the 7th to make improvements, after an on-site inspection of the hospital revealed that the actual working hours of some doctors did not match the records and that several hospital rooms had been accepting more patients than their capacity.
TOP
Training facility completed to develop volunteers who can use heavy machinery at disaster sites
2025-03-07 17:56:00
A training facility for volunteers who will use heavy machinery to remove mud and fallen trees from disaster sites has been completed in Ibaraki Prefecture.
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Rice price outlook index falls sharply from previous month in survey of producers
2025-03-07 17:53:00
An index showing rice price forecasts for the next three months, surveyed among rice producers and wholesalers in February, has dropped significantly from the previous month. The survey group analyzed that this may be due to a widespread view that rice prices will remain at a high level, but that the government's release of stockpiled rice will weaken the upward trend.
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Iwate Ofunato forest fire to be designated as "severe disaster"
2025-03-07 17:18:00
The government is considering designating the forest fire in Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture, a "disaster of extreme severity," which would allow the national government to support the costs of recovery efforts, due to the extensive damage it has caused. Prime Minister Ishiba is expected to announce this at a meeting of relevant cabinet ministers on the 7th.
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Ofunato forest fire evacuation orders lifted for some areas for the first time since outbreak
2025-03-07 17:14:00
In response to the forest fire that broke out in Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture, the city lifted the evacuation order for some areas on the Ofunato Bay side at 10:00 a.m. on the 7th, saying that there was no longer any risk of the fire spreading. This is the first time that an evacuation order has been lifted since the forest fire began. However, evacuation orders remain in place for 11% of the city's residents.
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Fukuoka High Court rules on disparity in one vote: All 16 cases nationwide are constitutional
2025-03-07 17:10:00
The Fukuoka High Court has ruled that the disparity in the value of one vote in last October's House of Representatives election, which was as large as 2.06 times, does not violate the Constitution, dismissing a lawsuit seeking to invalidate the election. As a result, all 16 lawsuits filed in courts across the country have been ruled "constitutional."
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[Information Summary] Tohoku Shinkansen train disconnected. What happened? Why again?
2025-03-07 17:07:00
On the 6th, a coupling came off on the Tohoku Shinkansen while it was running through Tokyo. What happened at the coupling, and why did it happen again when a similar problem occurred last year? Here is a summary of what we know so far.
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Fire at Okayama substation, 2 injured, power outage in surrounding area
2025-03-07 16:58:00
A fire broke out at a substation in Kita-ku, Okayama City at around 2:30 p.m. on the 7th. The fire has been almost completely extinguished, but according to the fire department, two people were injured.
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Agriculture Minister Eto: "It's not the time to rush to buy rice" - Call for calm
2025-03-07 16:47:00
As rice prices continue to rise, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Eto called for calm, saying that consumers are not in a position to rush to buy rice, and indicated that depending on future price trends, the government will consider responses, including releasing more stockpiled rice.
TOP
Two men arrested in Tokyo for allegedly defrauding 2.1 million yen in renovation costs by posing as construction workers
2025-03-07 16:44:00
Two suspects, posing as construction workers, were arrested by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department on suspicion of fraud and other offences after visiting an elderly man's home and lying to him, telling him that his attic was rotting due to a water leak, and defrauding him of 2.1 million yen for unnecessary renovation work. They are said to be denying the charges during questioning.
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LDP to hold new meeting to discuss issues raised over free high school tuition
2025-03-07 16:41:00
Regarding the issue of making high school tuition free, the Liberal Democratic Party has decided to set up a new meeting within the party to discuss concrete measures, stating that it is necessary to urgently address various issues that have been pointed out, including under-enrollment at public high schools.
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PTSD and aftereffects of the Tokyo subway sarin gas attack, even 30 years later... [NHK analysis]
2025-03-07 16:40:00
Thirty years have passed since the Aum Shinrikyo sarin gas attack on the Tokyo subway, in which approximately 6,300 people were victimized. NHK, in collaboration with experts, analyzed a questionnaire filled out by over 1,000 victims about their health. The results showed that people who reported symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were more than twice as likely to report that they also had symptoms of the aftereffects of the sarin gas attack than those who did not.
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What are the key points of the proposed revision to the Entertainment and Amusement Business Law?
2025-03-07 16:15:00
In response to the problem of malicious host clubs, a proposed revision to the Entertainment and Amusement Business Act was approved by the Cabinet on the 7th. We have summarized the new regulations and tougher penalties that have been included.
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Nuclear deterrence: French President "Cooperative relations with other countries to be confirmed by the first half of this year"
2025-03-07 16:14:00
French President Macron, who has indicated his intention to consider expanding nuclear deterrence to Europe, has made clear his intention to continue discussions with leaders of various countries and to confirm by the first half of this year whether new cooperative relationships can be built.
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Ofunato forest fire evacuation orders lifted for some areas for the first time since outbreak
2025-03-07 16:13:00
In response to the forest fire that broke out in Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture, the city lifted the evacuation order for some areas on the Ofunato Bay side at 10:00 a.m. on the 7th, saying that there was no longer any risk of the fire spreading. This is the first time that an evacuation order has been lifted since the forest fire began. However, evacuation orders remain in place for 11% of the city's residents.
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Agriculture Minister Eto: "It's not the time to rush to buy rice" - Call for calm
2025-03-07 16:09:00
As rice prices continue to rise, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Eto called for calm, saying that consumers are not in a position to rush to buy rice, and indicated that depending on future price trends, the government will consider responses, including releasing more stockpiled rice.
TOP
Fukuoka High Court rules on disparity in one vote: All 16 cases nationwide are constitutional
2025-03-07 16:08:00
The Fukuoka High Court has ruled that the disparity in the value of one vote in last October's House of Representatives election, which was as large as 2.06 times, does not violate the Constitution, dismissing a lawsuit seeking to invalidate the election. This means that all 16 lawsuits filed in courts across the country have been ruled "constitutional."
TOP
Rice price outlook index falls sharply from previous month in survey of producers
2025-03-07 15:41:00
An index showing rice price forecasts for the next three months, surveyed among rice producers and wholesalers in February, showed a significant drop from the previous month. The survey group analyzed that this may be due to a widespread view that the government's release of stockpiled rice will calm the soaring price of rice.
TOP
Three workers in sewer construction in Oga, Akita, confirmed dead at hospital
2025-03-07 15:36:00
On the morning of the 7th, three workers working on sewer construction in Oga City, Akita Prefecture, were found unconscious in a manhole, and according to the police, they were all confirmed dead at the hospital where they were taken. The police are currently investigating the details of the incident.
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81-year-old death row inmate in Fukuoka 4-person murder case dies of pneumonia
2025-03-07 15:30:00
An 81-year-old death row inmate who was sentenced to death for conspiring with his family to murder four people, including a woman he knew, in Omuta City, Fukuoka Prefecture, 21 years ago, died of pneumonia on the night of the 6th.
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Finance Minister Kato to promptly disclose documents related to "Moritomo document tampering"
2025-03-07 15:17:00
Regarding the falsification of the Ministry of Finance's approval documents related to Moritomo Gakuen, Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato has indicated his intention to swiftly proceed with the process of disclosing the related documents that have been submitted to the prosecutor's office.
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Hokkaido/Sanriku offshore earthquake warning information: awareness issue, name change considered
2025-03-07 15:05:00
Regarding the "Hokkaido/Sanriku Offshore Late Earthquake Warning Information," which warns of a subsequent massive earthquake in the event of a major earthquake occurring off the coast from Hokkaido to Iwate Prefecture, Minister of Disaster Management Sakai has revealed that he has ordered consideration to including changing the name, as awareness of the information is an issue.
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Odakyu Odawara Line service suspended on both lines between Mukogaoka-Yuen and Machida
2025-03-07 14:58:00
Due to a train malfunction, the Odakyu Odawara Line is currently suspending service on both lines between Mukogaoka-Yuen Station and Machida Station as of 3:00 PM. Service is expected to resume around 4:00 PM.
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Three workers in sewer construction in Oga, Akita, confirmed dead at hospital
2025-03-07 14:40:00
On the morning of the 7th, three workers working on sewer construction in Oga City, Akita Prefecture, were found unconscious in a manhole, and according to the police, they were all confirmed dead at the hospital where they were taken. The police are currently investigating the details of the incident.
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Fujikyu fatal accident: Employee explains, "We moved the train without thinking there were people there"
2025-03-07 14:34:00
In an accident last month at the amusement park "Fuji-Q Highland" in Yamanashi Prefecture, where an employee died while inspecting a roller coaster, another employee who was with him explained, "I was talking to a colleague and my attention was distracted. I moved the vehicle without realizing that there was someone there." Police are further investigating the case on suspicion of professional negligence resulting in death.
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Ofunato forest fire evacuation orders lifted for some areas for the first time since outbreak
2025-03-07 14:07:00
In response to the forest fire that broke out in Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture, the city lifted the evacuation order for some areas on the Ofunato Bay side at 10:00 a.m. on the 7th, saying that there was no longer any risk of the fire spreading. This is the first time that an evacuation order has been lifted since the forest fire began. However, evacuation orders remain in place for 11% of the city's residents.
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Arrest warrant issued for attempted murder of relative in his 50s in Kyoto stabbing incident involving elderly couple
2025-03-07 14:02:00
In connection with an incident this month in which a couple in their 70s were injured by a man stabbing them with a knife on a street in Kyoto City's Fushimi Ward, police have obtained an arrest warrant for a relative in his 50s on suspicion of attempted murder, alleging that he tried to kill the couple, and have released security camera images from near the scene.
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Cabinet approves bill to amend entertainment law to include ban on "sexual business" by malicious hosts
2025-03-07 13:58:00
In response to a series of problems involving female customers at host clubs being charged excessive fees and forced into debt, the government has decided on a bill to revise the Entertainment and Amusement Business Act, which includes a ban on so-called "romance business," in which men exploit romantic feelings by forcing them to pay expensive meals and drinks.
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Damage from last year's typhoons and heavy rains in Oita, Iwate and other areas to be designated as "localized severe disasters"
2025-03-07 13:57:00
The government has decided to designate Oita Prefecture, Iwate Prefecture, and other municipalities that suffered damage from last year's typhoons and heavy rains as "localized severe disasters." Subsidy rates for the restoration of farmland, roads, rivers, etc. will be increased.
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Three workers in sewer construction in Oga, Akita, confirmed dead at hospital
2025-03-07 13:36:00
At around 9:30 a.m. on the 7th, three workers working on a sewerage project in Oga City, Akita Prefecture, were found unconscious inside a manhole, and according to the police, all three were confirmed dead at the hospital where they were taken. The police are currently investigating the details of the incident.
TOP
Rice price outlook index falls sharply from previous month in survey of producers
2025-03-07 13:18:00
An index showing rice price forecasts for the next three months, surveyed among rice producers and wholesalers in February, showed a significant drop from the previous month. The survey group analyzed that this may be due to a widespread view that the government's release of stockpiled rice will calm the soaring price of rice.
TOP
Not recognizing same-sex marriage is unconstitutional: Nagoya High Court rules case unconstitutional for fourth time
2025-03-07 13:14:00
In a lawsuit filed by a same-sex couple living in Aichi Prefecture against the government, the Nagoya High Court ruled in favor of the constitution, following on from the first instance. This is the fourth second instance ruling in similar lawsuits filed across the country, and all of them have found the couple to be unconstitutional.
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Three workers collapse during sewer construction in Oga, Akita Prefecture, all unconscious
2025-03-07 13:12:00
On the morning of the 7th, three workers were found collapsed in a manhole at a sewer construction site in Oga City, Akita Prefecture, and according to the police, they were all unconscious and taken to the hospital. The police are currently investigating the details of the incident.
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Two men arrested in Tokyo for allegedly defrauding 2.1 million yen in renovation costs by posing as construction workers
2025-03-07 13:10:00
Two suspects, posing as construction workers, were arrested by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department on suspicion of fraud and other offences after visiting an elderly man's home and lying to him, telling him that his attic was rotting due to a water leak, and defrauding him of 2.1 million yen for unnecessary renovation work. They are said to be denying the charges during questioning.
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[Commentary] Same-sex marriage lawsuit: Does it violate the constitution? Or not? The future of the marriage system
2025-03-07 12:57:00
Attention is focused on the outcome of a class action lawsuit that asks, "Is the current marriage system that does not recognize same-sex marriage constitutional or unconstitutional?" Six cases have been filed in five locations across the country, and three high court rulings last year found all of them to be unconstitutional, citing "discriminatory treatment." What kind of trial is this class action lawsuit?
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Okawara Chemical Machinery False Accusation Case: Manufacturer side: "Prosecutors should indict swiftly"
2025-03-07 12:37:00
In a wrongful conviction case involving a chemical machinery manufacturer in Yokohama, an investigator from the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department's Public Security Bureau at the time was criminally indicted for destroying interrogation records, and the Prosecutorial Review Board decided that the decision not to indict was unjust. In response, the manufacturer held a press conference and called on the prosecutors to indict them swiftly, as the statute of limitations for some of the charges expires on the 11th of this month.
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Ofunato forest fire: Evacuation orders lifted in part for the first time since outbreak
2025-03-07 12:21:00
In response to the ongoing forest fire in Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture, the city lifted the evacuation order for six districts of Akasaki Town at 10 a.m. on the 7th, saying that there was no longer any risk of the fire spreading. This is the first time that an evacuation order has been lifted since the start of this forest fire.
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All connected trains on the Tohoku Shinkansen line canceled, stations and trains crowded
2025-03-07 12:16:00
On the 6th, a coupling came off on the Tohoku Shinkansen while it was running in Tokyo, and JR East canceled all coupled train operations on the 7th. As a result, queues have formed at ticket counters at stations, causing congestion.
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Not recognizing same-sex marriage is unconstitutional: Nagoya High Court rules case unconstitutional for fourth time
2025-03-07 11:47:00
In a lawsuit filed by a same-sex couple living in Aichi Prefecture against the government, the Nagoya High Court ruled in favor of the constitution, following on from the first instance. This is the fourth time that a similar lawsuit has been found unconstitutional by a second instance court.
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Three workers collapse during sewer construction in Oga, Akita Prefecture, all unconscious
2025-03-07 11:36:00
At around 9:30 a.m. on the 7th, three workers working on a sewerage project in Oga City, Akita Prefecture, were found collapsed inside a manhole. According to the police and fire department, all three were taken to the hospital unconscious, and the details of the incident are currently being investigated.
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Ofunato forest fire: Over 800 breads and other prepared foods delivered to evacuation centers free of charge
2025-03-07 11:34:00
In response to the ongoing forest fires in Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture, over 800 sweet and savory breads will be delivered free of charge to evacuation centers in the city on the 7th.
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Agriculture Minister Eto: "It's not the time to rush to buy rice" - Call for calm
2025-03-07 11:27:00
As rice prices continue to rise, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Eto called for calm, saying that consumers are not in a position to rush to buy rice, and indicated that depending on future price trends, the government will consider responses, including releasing more stockpiled rice.
TOP
Tohoku Shinkansen "uncoupled"; all coupled trains cancelled, congestion expected
2025-03-07 11:16:00
On the 6th, a coupling came off on the Tohoku Shinkansen while it was running in Tokyo, and the Japan Transport Safety Board will begin an investigation at the JR East facility where the train is kept on the afternoon of the 7th. JR has also announced that it will suspend all coupled train operations until necessary measures are completed, which means many trains will be suspended, leading to congestion. JR has just announced that it will suspend all coupled train operations on the Tohoku, Yamagata, and Akita Shinkansen lines on the 8th, following the 7th.
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Government finalizes evacuation plan for Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Power Plant ahead of restart
2025-03-07 11:01:00
It has been learned from interviews with people involved that the Cabinet Office and others have put together a final plan for evacuation of residents in the event of a serious accident at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Power Plant, which Tokyo Electric Power Company is aiming to restart, including measures to deal with heavy snow, which has been a concern from local residents. Emergency response measures are in fact one of the requirements for restarting the plant, and the government hopes to lead to an early restart by putting together the response measures.
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Ofunato forest fire evacuation orders partially lifted
2025-03-07 10:48:00
In response to the ongoing forest fire in Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture, the city lifted the evacuation order for six districts of Akasaki Town at 10 a.m. on the 7th, saying that there was no longer any risk of the fire spreading. This is the first time that an evacuation order has been lifted since the start of this forest fire.
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Ofunato forest fire risk reduced, evacuation orders lifted in part
2025-03-07 10:15:00
In response to the ongoing forest fire in Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture, the city lifted the evacuation order for six districts of Akasaki Town at 10 a.m. on the 7th, saying that there was no longer any risk of the fire spreading. This is the first time that an evacuation order has been lifted since the start of this forest fire.
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Cabinet approves bill to amend entertainment law to include ban on "sexual business" by malicious hosts
2025-03-07 08:59:00
In response to a series of problems involving female customers at host clubs being charged excessive fees and forced into debt, the government has decided on a bill to revise the Entertainment and Amusement Business Act, which includes a ban on so-called "romance business," in which men exploit romantic feelings by forcing them to pay expensive meals and drinks.
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Two passenger cars collide head-on, 5 children injured, Misawa, Aomori
2025-03-07 07:46:00
On the night of the 6th, two passenger cars collided head-on at an intersection in Misawa City, Aomori Prefecture, injuring five people, including children and high school students. None of the injuries were life-threatening, and the police are investigating the details of the accident.
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Ofunato forest fire: multiple heat sources cause evacuation order to be lifted with caution
2025-03-07 07:02:00
The forest fire in Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture, has weakened compared to a while ago, and the city has begun considering lifting the evacuation order for some areas. However, since multiple "heat sources" that could lead to ignition have been confirmed in the ground, the city plans to carefully consider whether to lift the evacuation order and continue firefighting activities while focusing on checking for "heat sources."
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Metropolitan Police Department to boost starting salary for college graduates to over 300,000 yen for those joining in spring 2026 as it strengthens recruitment
2025-03-07 06:57:00
The number of applicants for the recruitment exam continues to decline at the Metropolitan Police Department, and securing personnel is becoming an issue. In addition to raising the starting salary for police officers who will join the department in spring 2026 to over 300,000 yen for university graduates, the recruitment exam, which will begin accepting applications from the 7th, will allow applicants to choose to take the exam using aptitude tests that are widely used in the private sector, in an effort to strengthen recruitment.
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Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Power Plant aims to restart; final plan drawn up for response to major accident
2025-03-07 06:18:00
Regarding measures for evacuating residents in the event of a serious accident at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Power Plant, which Tokyo Electric Power Company is aiming to restart, the Cabinet Office and other parties have finalized a plan, incorporating measures for dealing with heavy snow, which has been a concern from local residents, according to interviews with people involved. Emergency response measures are in fact one of the requirements for restarting the plant, and the government hopes to lead to an early restart by putting together the measures.
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Tohoku Shinkansen "uncoupled"; all coupled trains cancelled, congestion expected
2025-03-07 06:13:00
On the 6th, a coupling came off on the Tohoku Shinkansen while it was running in Tokyo, and the Japan Transport Safety Board will begin an investigation at the JR East facility where the train is kept on the afternoon of the 7th. JR has also said it will suspend all coupled train operations until necessary measures are completed, which is expected to result in many cancellations and congestion.
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Aomori hospital murder cover-up: Former director instructs doctors not to contact family
2025-03-07 05:31:00
In a case where the former hospital director and others were arrested for attempting to cover up a murder case at a hospital in Hachinohe City, Aomori Prefecture, it was learned from an interview with an investigator that when a nurse reported the murder shortly after it occurred, the former hospital director is suspected of having instructed her that "there is no need to contact the family." The prosecution plans to indict the former hospital director and others on charges of concealing a criminal on the 7th.
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[Commentary] Same-sex marriage lawsuit: Does it violate the constitution? Or not? The future of the marriage system
2025-03-07 00:36:00
Attention is focused on the outcome of a class action lawsuit that asks, "Is the current marriage system that does not recognize same-sex marriage constitutional or unconstitutional?" Six cases have been filed in five locations across the country, and three high court rulings last year found all of them to be unconstitutional, citing "discriminatory treatment." What kind of trial is this class action lawsuit?
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Same-sex marriage lawsuit: Nagoya High Court rules today; fourth second-instance ruling
2025-03-07 00:30:00
The Nagoya High Court will hand down a ruling on the second instance of a lawsuit filed by a same-sex couple living in Aichi Prefecture against the government, alleging that the denial of same-sex marriage is unconstitutional, on the 7th. In the second instance of lawsuits filed in various locations, all three previous rulings have found the case to be unconstitutional, and attention is focused on whether the ruling on the 7th will follow suit.
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