Supreme Court Orders Independent Inquiry
The court was responding to public interest petitions that raised concerns about the treatment of animals and possible irregularities at the zoo. While it noted that many allegations were “unsupported,” the bench emphasised the need for an independent review, citing concerns that statutory authorities had failed to act.
A four-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) of retired judges has been formed to lead the inquiry. The SIT has been directed to submit its report by 12 September. The next hearing is scheduled for 15 September.
What Is Vantara?
Located in Jamnagar, Gujarat, Vantara covers nearly 3,500 acres and houses more than 2,000 species, including about 200 elephants, 300 big cats such as lions, tigers, and leopards, along with reptiles and herbivores. The facility, billed as the world’s largest animal rescue and rehabilitation centre, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March 2025.
The zoo is not open to the public and has long attracted criticism from wildlife activists over its scale, location near an oil refinery, and climatic suitability for certain species. Nonetheless, it has also hosted global business leaders, politicians, and celebrities, especially during the high-profile pre-wedding events of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant in 2024.
Allegations and Controversies
One of the most contentious cases involves Mahadevi, a 60-year-old elephant previously housed at a Jain temple in Maharashtra’s Kolhapur district. Following a court order, she was relocated to Vantara in July 2025, sparking protests from local communities and activists. Maharashtra’s government has announced plans to file a review petition to bring her back.
Critics argue that Gujarat’s hot and dry climate, combined with proximity to Reliance’s massive oil refinery, makes Vantara unsuitable for elephants and other animals. Animal rights groups have also questioned the legality of elephant acquisitions and raised concerns over transparency in operations.
Vantara’s Response
In an official statement, Vantara said it is fully cooperating with the inquiry. “Our mission and focus continues to be the rescue, rehabilitation and care of animals. Vantara remains committed to transparency, compassion, and compliance with the law,” it said. The facility did not directly address the allegations.
Global Attention on Ambani’s Zoo
Vantara has repeatedly been in the spotlight — not only for its rare collection of animals but also for its association with the Ambani family’s social and corporate events. Celebrities from India’s film industry, international business leaders, and politicians have visited the facility in the past year.
The current probe, however, shifts the focus from glamour to governance. It will examine whether the zoo’s operations align with India’s wildlife protection laws and financial regulations. The case is also expected to set a precedent for how large-scale private wildlife projects are regulated in India.
As the SIT investigation proceeds, all eyes will be on the Supreme Court’s final judgment, which could redefine the balance between private conservation efforts and public accountability.
