The Hong Kong government has filed for a court injunction to ban the 2019 protest song "Glory to Hong Kong."

The government says it is seeking a comprehensive ban on performing or disseminating the song, including on the internet among other types of use, with the intent of inciting secession.

"Glory to Hong Kong" was often sung four years ago at rallies and other occasions amid large-scale anti-government protests.

Authorities argue the song's lyrics include words inciting the territory's secession from China.

Local media are reporting the song was mistakenly played at some international sporting events overseas last year and this year as Hong Kong's official anthem, instead of China's national anthem, "March of the Volunteers."

The Hong Kong government says this has not only insulted the national anthem but also caused serious damage to China and the territory.

The national security law for Hong Kong took effect in 2020. The government has been cracking down on slogans widely used by protesters. It also argues that it is highly likely the song will continue to be widely disseminated.