The Supreme Court has ordered a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the operations of the Vantara Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre in Gujarat, a facility owned by Reliance Industries, after petitions alleged serious irregularities in animal care and compliance. The SIT will be headed by retired Supreme Court judge Justice Jasti Chelameswar and is expected to submit its report by September 12.

The investigation team also comprises former High Court Chief Justice Raghavendra Chauhan and former Mumbai Police Commissioner Hemant Nagrale, underscoring the gravity with which the apex court is treating the matter.

Court’s Concern: Allegations Too Serious to Ignore

The petitions, filed by advocate C.R. Jaya Sukin and Dev Sharma, cite newspaper reports to allege misconduct at the centre, though they lacked direct evidence. The court acknowledged that such claims would ordinarily be dismissed, but stressed that the “seriousness of allegations” warranted an independent probe, especially since “statutory authorities may be failing in their duties.”

The SIT has been tasked with reviewing compliance with the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, the legality of animal acquisitions, adherence to welfare standards, and financial transparency, including potential money laundering concerns.

Vantara Responds: “We Will Fully Cooperate”

In response, Vantara issued a statement accepting the Supreme Court’s directive with respect. “We acknowledge the order of the Supreme Court with utmost regard. Vantara remains committed to transparency, compassion and full compliance with the law. Our mission and focus continues to be the rescue, rehabilitation and care of animals. We will extend full cooperation to the Special Investigation Team and continue our work sincerely, always placing the welfare of animals at the heart of all our efforts. We request that the process be allowed to take place without speculation and in the best interest of the animals we serve,” the statement read.

The Reliance-owned organisation emphasised that its mission remains firmly rooted in animal rescue, rehabilitation, and care, even as it faces heightened scrutiny.

Broader Implications

While the court made it clear that the order is fact-finding only and does not imply guilt on Vantara or any authority, the move marks a significant turn in the ongoing controversy. Previous hearings had permitted Vantara’s participation, but no government bodies were issued notices until now.