SC-Appointed SIT Gives Vantara Clean Chit in Wildlife Probe
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) set up by the Supreme Court of India has given Reliance Foundation’s Vantara wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre in Jamnagar a clean chit, according to a PTI report. Taking the report on record, a bench of Justices Pankaj Mithal and PB Varale noted that authorities had found Vantara compliant with regulatory requirements. A detailed order is expected after the bench reviews the SIT’s findings in full.
The SIT, headed by former Supreme Court judge Justice Jasti Chelameswar, was constituted on August 25 to conduct a fact-finding inquiry following allegations of non-compliance with laws and irregular acquisition of animals, particularly elephants. The apex court is hearing two PILs filed on the basis of media reports and complaints from NGOs and wildlife groups.
The team submitted its report on September 12 in a sealed cover, after a three-day visit to Vantara. During the inquiry, SIT members interacted with state forest officials, questioned senior Vantara leadership, and sought details from its international partners. Vantara, conceptualised by Anant Ambani, welcomed the findings, stating that it remains committed to “transparency, compassion, and full compliance with the law.”
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