New Delhi, India – The Supreme Court has ordered an independent investigation into Vantara, the sprawling wildlife rescue and rehabilitation park run by Reliance Foundation in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The project, spearheaded by Anant Ambani, son of billionaire Mukesh Ambani, houses over 1.5 lakh animals across 2,000 species and includes what it claims is the world’s largest elephant care facility.
The court’s directive came while hearing a batch of public interest litigations filed by wildlife groups alleging mistreatment of animals, irregularities in acquisitions, and lapses by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA). Though the bench noted that the allegations were “unsupported by proof,” it said an independent appraisal was necessary “in the ends of justice.”
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A committee led by a retired Supreme Court judge will now examine animal acquisitions—particularly elephants—review complaints of a “vanity collection,” and assess compliance with India’s Wildlife Protection Act.
The panel has been asked to submit its report by September 12.
In a statement, a Vantara spokesperson said the facility remains “committed to transparency and legal compliance” and will fully cooperate with the inquiry. “Our mission and focus continues to be the rescue, rehabilitation and care of animals,” it added.
The Ambani family’s marquee project made headlines last year when it hosted part of Anant Ambani’s pre-wedding festivities, with international celebrities invited to tour the centre in themed “jungle fever” outfits. Earlier this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also visited the park, describing it as a “safe haven for animals” that furthers ecological sustainability.
Apart from leading Vantara, Anant Ambani serves as Executive Director at Reliance Industries and plays a key role in its telecom and technology arm, Jio Platforms.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s inauguration of Vantara, a wildlife park run by Reliance Foundation in Jamnagar, had drawn flak from opposition leaders and activists, who questioned his close association with the Ambani family.
While Modi praised the project on X as a “safe haven for animals” and lauded Anant Ambani’s “compassionate effort,” critics pointed out that the Supreme Court has already ordered a probe into the facility over allegations of irregular animal acquisitions and violations of wildlife laws.
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