Court Seeks Independent Investigation Into Animal Acquisitions
India’s Supreme Court has ordered an independent investigation into Vantara, a wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre run by the Reliance Foundation, the philanthropic arm of billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s group. The court acted on public interest petitions that raised concerns about possible mistreatment of animals and questioned how they were brought to the facility.
The court noted that evidence did not support allegations of unlawful acquisitions or cruelty. However, it said a neutral review was necessary because the complaints suggested authorities had failed to discharge their duties. A panel led by a former Supreme Court judge will submit its findings to the court by 12 September.
Focus on Elephants and Wildlife Protection
The inquiry will examine how animals, particularly elephants, were acquired by Vantara. It will also investigate allegations that the centre was being used to create a private wildlife collection. Compliance with India’s Wild Life Protection Act will be a key part of the probe.
Located in Jamnagar, Gujarat, Vantara is a flagship project of the Ambani family and is led by Anant Ambani. It is home to more than 150,000 animals from over 2,000 species. The centre also houses the world’s largest elephant care facility, covering 998 acres.
A Vantara spokesperson told Reuters that the organisation remains committed to transparency and legal compliance. They added that Vantara will cooperate fully with the investigation, stressing its mission is animal rescue, rehabilitation and long-term care.
Local Concerns and Cultural Sensitivities
Vantara has faced opposition from local communities. Earlier this month, protests were held in Maharashtra against the relocation of a 36-year-old ailing elephant to the centre. Residents argued that the animal had deep cultural and spiritual significance, having taken part in religious processions for decades.
Reliance acknowledged the cultural importance of the elephant but said the transfer was carried out under a court directive.
The centre has also gained national and international attention. In March, Prime Minister Narendra Modi toured the facility and praised it as a safe haven for animals and a model of ecological sustainability.
A High-Profile Project Led by Anant Ambani
Anant Ambani, who also serves as an executive director at Reliance Industries, oversees Vantara. He has showcased its facilities during media tours, including kitchens where meals such as juices, sweets and even popcorn are prepared for elephants.
Vantara was also one of the venues for Anant Ambani’s pre-wedding celebrations last year, where global celebrities were encouraged to wear “jungle fever” attire while visiting the centre.
The Supreme Court’s probe is expected to bring greater clarity on how the facility operates and whether it complies with wildlife protection laws.
with inputs from Reuters
