(MENAFN) Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi held firm Monday against demands to retract allegations that foreign visitors had assaulted deer at Nara Park, statements she initially voiced while vying for control of the governing Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).

The premier maintained her position even as an opposition parliamentarian cautioned that such commentary risks stoking xenophobic attitudes, a Japanese news agency reported.

"It is a fact that such regrettable behavior by foreigners has become more noticeable," Takaichi told lawmakers during the parliamentary session, brushing aside the legislator's concerns that spreading unconfirmed digital rumors could intensify hostility and bigotry toward international guests.

Takaichi justified her assertions by citing direct observation, recalling an episode where she confronted an English-speaking person for striking a deer. She further noted receiving corroborating reports from Nara tourism industry operators and local police authorities.

The controversy emerges as Tokyo deliberates hiking visa processing charges for overseas visitors beginning in fiscal 2026, the news agency disclosed, referencing sources with knowledge of the discussions.

Implementation would represent the nation's first fee increase since 1978. Officials plan to channel the extra funds toward combating overtourism, which has generated severe crowding and environmental harm at high-traffic locations, insiders stated.

Takaichi, a staunch conservative, established Japan's inaugural Cabinet position exclusively focused on foreign resident matters following her October 21 inauguration, with the mandate to cultivate an "orderly coexistent society with foreigners."

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