SC Initiates SIT Investigation into Reliance Foundation’s Vantara Animal Centre

The Supreme Court has ordered a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe allegations regarding the Vantara Animal Centre operated by Reliance Foundation in Jamnagar, Gujarat, as per news reports. Headed by former Supreme Court Justice Jasti Chelameswar, the SIT will assess legal compliance surrounding animal welfare, particularly concerning international transfers of elephants and other protected species.

SIT to Examine Legal and Ethical Compliance at Vantara

The SIT, tasked with performing a fact-finding inquiry, will evaluate adherence to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, alongside zoo regulations and provisions under the CITES. The team includes Justice Raghavendra Chauhan, Hemant Nagrale (former Mumbai Police Commissioner), and Anish Gupta, IRS. Their focus will include examination of import and export documentation for animals, standards of veterinary care, and compliance with biodiversity and climate-related norms.

Reason for the Court’s Intervention

Despite initial reluctance due to the lack of evidence in the Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by lawyer CR Jaya Sukin, the court acknowledged concerns over the capacity of authorities to monitor high-profile institutions. The move is intended solely to aid the court with factual inputs before delivering any judgment or instruction regarding the facility’s operations.

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Scope of SIT Investigation

The SIT will also explore grievances related to animal mortality rates, climate inhospitality to protected species, and proximity of the sanctuary to industrial infrastructure. Additional aspects under review include potential misuse of carbon and water credits and allegations of the facility operating as a vanity project or private menagerie under the guise of conservation.

Timeline and Next Steps

The team has been directed to submit their findings by September 12, 2025. The court has scheduled the matter for hearing on September 15, 2025, at which time it will review the SIT report and determine the need for further actions or directions.

Conclusion

The formation of the SIT marks a significant judicial step in ensuring transparency and accountability in large-scale private-run wildlife centres. The Supreme Court emphasised that this move does not presume guilt but seeks factual clarity to reinforce compliance with national and international wildlife standards.

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