Supreme Court Clears Ambani’s Vantara Animal Acquisition in Gujarat

The Supreme Court of India has accepted the report of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) that found no irregularities in the acquisition and care of animals at Vantara Greens Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre, run by the Reliance Foundation in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The SIT, headed by former Supreme Court judge Justice J. Chelameswar, conducted a detailed inquiry into allegations of illegal acquisition of animals, including elephants, and found that all acquisitions complied with regulatory laws. The Court noted satisfaction with the SIT's findings and emphasized that Vantara's activities align with legal and ethical standards for conservation, rescue, and rehabilitation, rejecting claims of commercial exploitation or mistreatment. Solicitors for Vantara opposed making the SIT report public, citing concerns over confidentiality and potential misinformation in international media. The Court criticized unsubstantiated petitions and urged caution against speculative allegations that could harm genuine wildlife conservation efforts. The matter is considered closed by the Court, though it will continue monitoring the situation to ensure compliance.