SC Launches Investigation Into Ambani’s Vantara Wildlife Center

India – (Special Correspondent / Web Desk) – India’s Supreme Court has ordered an independent investigation into a wildlife rescue center run by the Reliance Foundation, which is part of billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s group. The court clarified that there is no evidence of illegal animal acquisition or mistreatment but said a review is needed for transparency and fairness.

Vantara, the rescue and rehabilitation project, is one of Reliance Foundation’s flagship initiatives. Located in Gujarat, it is led by Anant Ambani, son of Mukesh Ambani. The center has rescued thousands of animals and built the world’s largest elephant hospital. The project also gained attention when it hosted a part of Anant Ambani’s pre-wedding celebrations, where global celebrities attended and followed a “jungle fever” theme.

The court acted on public interest petitions filed by wildlife and non-profit groups. These petitions raised concerns about animal care and questioned how the animals were brought to the facility. They also claimed that the Central Zoo Authority, India’s regulatory body, did not properly monitor the center.

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Although no proof supports the claims of abuse, the Supreme Court said a neutral inquiry is needed since the complaints suggest authorities were not performing their duties. The court emphasized the importance of independent fact-checking to maintain trust and accountability.

Vantara responded by saying it remains fully committed to transparency and legal compliance. The foundation promised complete cooperation with the investigation and stated its mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and care for animals.

The investigation will be led by a former Supreme Court judge. The panel will check how animals, especially elephants, were acquired and ensure compliance with India’s Wildlife Protection Act. The report will also look into allegations of creating a private or vanity collection of wildlife. The findings must be submitted to the court by September 12.

Situated in Jamnagar, Gujarat, Vantara is home to over 150,000 animals from more than 2,000 species. The center has a 998-acre elephant care trust, which it claims is the largest in the world for rescued elephants. Earlier this month, a protest erupted in Maharashtra over moving a 36-year-old elephant to Vantara. Locals said the elephant had been part of their spiritual traditions for years. Reliance explained that the move followed a court order and respected cultural sentiments.

Earlier this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Vantara, calling it a safe home for wildlife and a model for ecological sustainability. Anant Ambani, who is also an executive director at Reliance Industries, personally oversees Vantara. He even shared how elephants are given special meals like juices, sweets, and popcorn as treats, showcasing the unique care provided at the facility.