A Special Investigation Team (SIT) appointed by the Supreme Court to investigate the Vantara Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat, has submitted a report indicating compliance with the law in its animal acquisition processes and adherence to high animal welfare standards. The Supreme Court, after reviewing the SIT's report, expressed satisfaction with Vantara's regulatory compliance.

Background of the Investigation The Supreme Court established the SIT on August 25, 2025, in response to two Public Interest Litigations (PILs) that alleged irregularities at Vantara. These petitions, fueled by media reports, social media content, and complaints from NGOs and wildlife organizations, prompted the court to seek an independent factual appraisal of Vantara's operations. The court emphasized that the order for an inquiry did not reflect any doubt on the functioning of statutory authorities or Vantara itself.

SIT Composition and Mandate Headed by a former Supreme Court judge, Justice Jasti Chelameswar, the SIT included Justice Raghavendra Chauhan (former Chief Justice of Uttarakhand and Telangana High Courts), Hemant Nagrale (former Mumbai Police Commissioner), and Anish Gupta (former Indian Revenue Service officer). The SIT's mandate was comprehensive, encompassing various aspects of Vantara's operations:

• Animal Acquisition: Examining the acquisition of animals, especially elephants, from both India and abroad.
• Legal Compliance: Ensuring adherence to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, rules for zoos, international trade regulations (CITES), and import-export laws.
• Animal Welfare: Assessing standards of animal husbandry, veterinary care, animal welfare, and addressing mortality-related concerns.
• Environmental and Financial Aspects: Investigating complaints related to climatic conditions, the facility's location near an industrial zone, potential misuse of water and carbon credits, financial irregularities, and money laundering.
• Ethical Concerns: Addressing allegations about creating a "vanity" or private collection, breeding practices, conservation programs, and the use of biodiversity resources.

SIT Findings and Supreme Court Observations The SIT conducted an extensive on-site inquiry, consulting with regulators, experts, and stakeholders. The investigation involved detailed questionnaires, scrutiny of documents related to animal transfers, funding, veterinary care, and legal permissions. The Supreme Court noted the SIT's satisfaction with Vantara's compliance and regulatory measures. The SIT concluded that the acquisition of animals was carried out according to regulatory laws.

Key Points from the SIT Report

• No Foul Play: The SIT found no evidence of illegal animal acquisitions or breaches of wildlife laws.
• Regulatory Compliance: Vantara was found to be in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
• High Welfare Standards: The SIT observed that welfare standards for animal conservation and preservation at Vantara exceeded prescribed benchmarks. Mortality figures were also in line with global zoological averages.
• Baseless Allegations: Allegations regarding the misuse of carbon credits, water resources, or financial impropriety were found to be without basis, based on responses from agencies like the CBI, DRI, and ED.

Vantara: Aims and Objectives

Vantara, which translates to "Star of the Forest," is an animal rescue, care, and rehabilitation initiative by the Reliance Foundation. Located in Jamnagar, Gujarat, it spans 3,000-3,500 acres and houses over 150,000 animals across 2,000 species. Vantara aims to provide a sanctuary for injured, abused, and endangered animals, offering veterinary care, natural habitats, and expert teams. The facility includes a large elephant welfare center, equipped with hydrotherapy pools and specialized veterinary tools. Vantara is not open to the general public and operates under the regulatory frameworks set by the Central Zoo Authority of India and state wildlife departments.

Moving Forward The Supreme Court has taken the SIT report on record and closed the matter, preventing further proceedings based on the same allegations. The court has allowed Vantara to pursue legal remedies against misinformation and defamation.