TOKYO (AP) — Japan on Friday enacted a controversial new law prohibiting desecration of its national flag, a key right-wing agenda pushed by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Opponents say it’s an attempt to intimidate the public and silence criticism of her government.

The law punishes publicly damaging or defacing the national flag, known as “hinomaru,” including livestreaming of the scene in ways that would offend the feelings of others.