Vantara, the zoological rescue and rehabilitation centre in Gujarat's Jamnagar, has received a favorable assessment from a Supreme Court-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT). The Supreme Court, after reviewing the SIT report, expressed satisfaction with Vantara's adherence to compliance and regulatory standards. The court cautioned against tarnishing the image of the facility, emphasizing its compliance with the law.

The SIT was formed in response to petitions alleging unlawful animal acquisition, mistreatment of animals, financial irregularities, and violations of the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972 and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The petitions also raised concerns about animal welfare, ecological impact, and potential money laundering. The Supreme Court decided to form an independent SIT after noting that the petitions were largely based on media reports and hearsay.

The SIT, led by former Supreme Court Judge Justice J. Chelameswar, included Justice Raghavendra Chauhan, Hemant Nagrale, and Anish Gupta. The team's mandate was to conduct an independent factual appraisal of the allegations against Vantara. This included examining the acquisition of animals, particularly elephants, from both India and abroad; compliance with wildlife protection laws and international trade regulations; adherence to animal welfare standards; and environmental concerns. The SIT also investigated complaints regarding climatic conditions and the location of Vantara near an industrial zone. The team visited Vantara in August to verify the claims.

During the proceedings, the Supreme Court addressed concerns regarding the transfer of temple elephants to Vantara, clarifying that such transfers are permissible if all procedural requirements are met. The court's observation came during a hearing of a public interest litigation (PIL) challenging the relocation of elephants to Vantara.

Vantara, conceptualized by Anant Ambani and operating under the Reliance Foundation, is an animal rescue, care, and rehabilitation initiative. Following the Supreme Court's order to form the SIT, Vantara stated its commitment to transparency, compassion, and full compliance with the law, pledging complete cooperation with the investigation. The organization reiterated its focus on animal welfare and its dedication to rescuing, rehabilitating, and caring for animals. Vantara requested that the legal process be allowed to proceed without speculation, keeping the best interests of the animals at the forefront.