The Supreme Court of India has ordered an independent investigation into Vantara, the Reliance Foundation–run wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat, led by Anant Ambani.
The directive came while hearing public interest litigations filed by wildlife groups alleging unlawful animal acquisitions, mistreatment, and failure of the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) to regulate the facility.
Although the court noted the petitions lacked concrete proof, it said an inquiry was necessary as the allegations suggested possible regulatory lapses:
“We consider it appropriate in the ends of justice to call for an independent factual appraisal,” the court said.
A panel led by a former Supreme Court judge will now review:
- Acquisition of animals, particularly elephants.
- Allegations of vanity or private collections.
- Compliance with the Wild Life Protection Act.
The panel has been directed to submit its report by September 12.
A Vantara spokesperson told Reuters the organisation is committed to “transparency and legal compliance” and will fully cooperate with the inquiry.
Spread across 998 acres, Vantara houses over 150,000 animals from 2,000+ species, and includes what it calls the world’s largest elephant hospital. It recently drew global attention as a venue for Anant Ambani’s pre-wedding celebrations and was praised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a visit in March.
