SIT Submits Sealed Report to Supreme Court on Vantara Wildlife Inquiry

The Special Investigation Team (SIT), constituted by the Supreme Court of India under former Justice Jasti Chelameswar, has submitted a sealed report on the Vantara wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The SIT was tasked to investigate allegations of unlawful acquisition of animals, including elephants and endangered species, potential wildlife smuggling, compliance with the Wildlife Protection Act, international trade laws such as CITES, animal welfare standards, and financial irregularities including money laundering. The inquiry involved extensive questioning of Vantara's leadership, collaboration with multiple state forest departments, and scrutiny of international partners. The Supreme Court has accepted the sealed report, which also examined concerns over environmental conditions, possible misuse of resources, and the legality of animal acquisitions from India and abroad. Vantara has stated its commitment to transparency, compliance with the law, and its mission of animal rescue and rehabilitation. The Supreme Court will review the findings and decide on any further legal or administrative actions, with experts suggesting the investigation could lead to reforms in wildlife protection and governance.