The Supreme Court-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) has cleared Vantara, the animal rescue and rehabilitation centre owned by Reliance in Jamnagar, Gujarat, of all allegations related to animal smuggling.
The SIT found no irregularities in the transfer of elephants and other animals to the facility, confirming that all movements were made with valid permits and proper approvals.
The verdict stated that the court believes the receipt of animals by Vantara for conservation and breeding involved complex, multi-layered statutory approvals and documentation. It emphasised that the animals were moved only after valid permits were issued and that import clearance in India is subject to various checks enforced by multiple statutory authorities.
The SIT, formed by the Supreme Court on August 25 to investigate claims from media reports, social platforms, NGOs, and wildlife groups, concluded that there was “no violation of law.” The court added, “It is not open for anyone to dispute the validity attached to such permits or official acts.”
The report also recommended that government authorities explore ways to further enhance Vantara’s operations. Welcoming the verdict, Team Vantara expressed gratitude, calling it “a relief and a blessing” that allows their work to speak for itself.
The SIT praised Vantara’s animal welfare practices, stating that “the facilities exceed prescribed benchmarks,” with mortality rates aligning with global averages. “We are more than satisfied that the facilities exceed statutory benchmarks for animal husbandry, veterinary care, and welfare,” the report noted.
During the hearings, Vantara’s representatives, including Senior Advocate Harish Salve, emphasised the facility’s transparency and need for confidentiality due to proprietary concerns. Petitioners raised objections, particularly regarding elephants from temples, but the court rejected these, pointing out that animals are often mistreated in such settings.