India’s Supreme Court has ordered an independent inquiry into Vantara, the Ambani family’s marquee animal rescue and rehabilitation project in Gujarat, following public interest petitions that raised concerns about possible mistreatment of animals and regulatory lapses.
The court’s decision came late on Monday after hearing pleas filed by non-profit and wildlife groups. These petitions alleged that animals were being acquired without proper oversight and that the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) had failed to perform its regulatory duties. While the bench noted that no concrete proof of wrongdoing had yet been presented, it ruled that an impartial investigation was necessary to address the concerns.
“We consider it appropriate in the ends of justice to call for an independent factual appraisal,” the court said in its written order.
A spokesperson for Vantara told Reuters that the project remains “committed to transparency and legal compliance” and will fully cooperate with investigators. “Our mission and focus continues to be the rescue, rehabilitation, and care of animals,” the statement added. The CZA has not yet commented on the court’s directive.
Vantara has previously drawn global attention, including during Anant Ambani’s pre-wedding celebrations last year, where international celebrities were invited to the centre in “jungle fever” themed outfits. Earlier in March, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the facility, describing it as a “safe haven for animals” that also promotes ecological sustainability.
