SIT gives clean chit to Gujarat’s Vantara centre

The Supreme Court appointed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the functioning of Reliance-owned Vantara Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The move came after petitions were filed raising concerns about how animals were being brought to the centre.

After three weeks of inquiry, the SIT submitted its report to the Supreme Court and gave a clean chit to Vantara. The committee found no irregularities in the acquisition of animals and confirmed that the process was carried out in line with all existing laws and permissions. 

Former Supreme Court judge and head of the SIT, Justice Chelameswar noted in the report that the “acquisition of animals has been carried out as per regulatory laws” and expressed satisfaction that all statutory compliances were met. During the hearing, senior advocate Harish Salve, appearing on behalf of Vantara, requested the court to close the matter. He remarked, “This facility is one of its kind in the world. We must have a decent burial on this issue.”

The Supreme Court bench, while considering the findings, observed that some institutions are “the pride of the country” and should not be subjected to repeated criticism without evidence. The court further acknowledged the role of such centres in providing shelter, treatment, and care for rescued animals.

The SIT consisted of retired judges, senior forest officials, and experts who carefully reviewed the documents, permissions, and practices followed by the rescue centre. Their conclusion has brought clarity to the case, ending weeks of speculation around the project. With this report, Gujarat’s Vantara rescue centre has received formal clearance, reaffirming its status as a lawful and recognised facility for animal care and rehabilitation.