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Key Points

A Special Investigation Team appointed by the Supreme Court has submitted nearly 200 questions to Vantara's wildlife rescue center. The probe focuses on allegations of unlawful animal acquisition and mistreatment at the Jamnagar facility. Investigators spent three days on site questioning senior staff and have summoned international partners. Vantara has pledged full cooperation with the investigation while maintaining its commitment to animal welfare.

Key Points: SIT Probes Reliance Vantara Wildlife Center with 200 Queries

  • SIT led by Justice Chelameswar spent three days at Vantara facility
  • Investigators questioning senior leadership team members extensively
  • Multiple state forest department officials assisting in the inquiry
  • International partners summoned for questioning in wildlife probe
2 min read

SIT's Vantara inquiry: Close to 200 questions, multiple agencies, summons to global partners

Supreme Court-appointed SIT questions Vantara leadership, summons international partners in wildlife acquisition probe. Investigation led by Justice Chelameswar continues.

"We acknowledge the order of the Hon'ble Supreme Court with utmost regard. Vantara remains committed to transparency, compassion and full compliance with the law - Vantara official"

New Delhi, September 9

Vantara, a global wildlife rescue and rehabilitation organization under the Reliance Foundation, has received a questionnaire of nearly 200 queries from a consortium of investigative authorities, a source close to the probe told ANI on condition of anonymity.

The source said the Special Investigation Team (SIT), led by former Supreme Court Judge Justice Jasti Chelameswar, spent three days at Vantara and engaged multiple other investigative agencies, including senior officials from multiple state forest departments to assist in the inquiry.

Senior members of Vantara's leadership team were subjected to lengthy questioning during the visit. It has also emerged that the SIT has asked Vantara to summon all its international partners for questioning.

On August 25th 2025, the apex court formed an SIT headed by Justice Jasti Chelameswar to conduct a fact-finding inquiry into the allegations of unlawful acquisition of animals and their mistreatment in Vantara Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat.

A bench of Justices Pankaj Mithal and Prasanna B Varale directed the SIT to complete its inquiry and submit a report by September 12.

The four-member SIT will also examine and report on issues such as compliance with wildlife protection laws, international trade regulations, animal welfare standards and environmental concerns, the apex court added.

The top court passed its order on a plea filed by one CR Jaya Sukin, who alleged that animals are being unlawfully acquired and kept in the Vantara wildlife centre. The plea has alleged that animals, including elephants, birds and other endangered species, are being smuggled into Vantara in the name of providing a wildlife rescue and rehabilitation facility

When contacted by ANI to respond to the SIT's investigation, Vantara stated that the organization will comply with the law. "We acknowledge the order of the Hon'ble Supreme Court with utmost regard. Vantara remains committed to transparency, compassion and full compliance with the law", Vantara official said in a statement.

The statement further added, "Our mission and focus continues to be the rescue, rehabilitation and care of animals. We will extend full cooperation to the Special Investigation Team and continue our work sincerely, always placing the welfare of animals at the heart of all our efforts. We request that the process be allowed to take place without speculation and in the best interest of the animals we serve."

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Let the investigation proceed properly. If Vantara is truly following all laws and regulations, they have nothing to fear. Transparency is important when dealing with endangered species.
A
Arjun K
I've visited Vantara and the facilities were world-class. The animals looked healthy and well-cared for. Hope this investigation doesn't affect their important rescue work 🐘
M
Michael C
As an expat working in conservation, I appreciate India taking wildlife protection seriously. The scale of this investigation shows they're not playing around. Due process must be followed.
S
Shreya B
Why summon international partners? This seems excessive and could damage India's reputation in global conservation circles. The timing feels suspicious too.
K
Karthik V
Respectfully, while I support Vantara's mission, no organization should be above scrutiny. If there are allegations of illegal animal acquisition, they must be thoroughly investigated. Justice Chelameswar is a respected judge who will ensure fairness.
N
Nisha Z
Hope the animals don't suffer because of this legal battle. Their welfare should be the top priority for everyone involved 🙏

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