Supreme Court Clears Vantara of Allegations, Accepts SIT Report as Centre of Fact

Vantara, the wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre run by Reliance Foundation in Jamnagar, Gujarat, has been officially cleared of wrongdoing by a Supreme Court-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT). The top court accepted the SIT’s report, concluding that Vantara is in regulatory compliance and that allegations concerning animal mistreatment and illegal acquisition are unsubstantiated. Legal proceedings on these claims are now closed.

What the Investigation Looked Into

• The SIT was tasked with examining a wide range of allegations including how animals (especially elephants) were acquired (both domestically and from abroad), whether wildlife protection laws were followed, and whether there was mistreatment, cruelty, or negligence.
• The probe also covered standards of care: veterinary infrastructure, living conditions, environmental suitability, breeding practices, mortality rates, and whether location near industrial zones posed risks. Rules under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, zoo recognition norms, CITES import/export rules, Customs, and other related legislation were reviewed.

Key Findings of the SIT & Supreme Court

• No Violations Found: The SIT concluded that there were no contraventions of India’s Wildlife Protection Act (1972), zoo rules, CZA (Central Zoo Authority) guidelines, or applicable laws (Customs, CITES, etc.), in regard to animal acquisition or welfare.
• Facilities & Welfare Standards Good: The report stated that the facilities meet or exceed prescribed benchmarks for animal husbandry, veterinary care, and welfare. Mortality rates align with global zoological norms.
• Complaints Unfounded: Allegations related to mistreatment, financial misconduct, smuggling, or misusing laws for acquiring animals were found to be baseless.

Court Order & Implications:

• The Supreme Court, in a bench by Justices Pankaj Mithal and P. B. Varale, accepted the SIT’s report and ordered that similar complaints or petitions based on the same set of allegations shall no longer be entertained in any judicial, statutory, or administrative forum.
• The court also directed that the summary of the SIT report (which captures conclusions and recommendations) be made part of the order. The full report is sealed, with confidentiality, but to be shared with Vantara for record.

Reactions

• Vantara’s leadership welcomed the verdict, saying the findings affirm their commitment to animal welfare and that the allegations had no basis.
• The Supreme Court expressed satisfaction with the thoroughness of the SIT’s process: consultations, site visits, expert opinions, and cross-agency coordination.

Conclusion:

With the SIT’s comprehensive report accepted and the Supreme Court’s order, Vantara has received formal exoneration. The case underscores the importance of evidence, regulatory compliance, and independent inquiry when serious allegations surface. Going forward, the order ensures that similar allegations will have legal finality, and draws attention to how animal rescue and rehabilitation projects are held in public and judicial scrutiny.