Vantara news is once again making headlines after the Supreme Court of India ordered a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to conduct a detailed probe into the operations of Vantara, a large zoological rescue and rehabilitation centre set up by the Reliance Foundation in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The decision came in response to multiple complaints and petitions raising concerns about alleged violations of environmental, wildlife, and financial regulations linked to the project.
On 25th August 2025, a bench of Justice Pankaj Mithal and Justice Prasanna B Varale directed the formation of a three-member SIT under the chairmanship of former Supreme Court judge Justice Jasti Chelameswar. The team has been empowered to conduct a wide-ranging inquiry and present its findings before the Supreme Court by 12th September 2025.
Why the SIT Was Constituted
The formation of the SIT was triggered by a petition filed by advocate C.R. Jaya Sukin, who raised questions about the functioning of both the Union Government and the Vantara project. The Supreme Court clarified that its decision should not be seen as a reflection of bias or suspicion against any authority or Vantara itself. Instead, the move was described as a necessary step to address public concerns and bring transparency.
According to reports from LiveLaw, Vantara, also known as the Green Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre, was launched by Reliance Foundation with the aim of rescuing, rehabilitating, and providing shelter to injured or displaced animals. However, several questions have been raised about how animals—particularly elephants—were acquired and whether environmental and legal compliances were strictly followed.
Members of the SIT
The SIT formed by the Supreme Court includes eminent personalities with expertise in law enforcement, judiciary, and administration. The panel is expected to examine documents, question authorities, and interact with petitioners and other stakeholders to ensure an impartial probe.
The SIT members are:
- Justice Jasti Chelameswar – Former Judge, Supreme Court of India (Chairperson)
- Justice Raghvendra Chauhan – Former Chief Justice of Uttarakhand and Telangana High Courts
- Hemant Nagrale – Former Commissioner of Police, Mumbai (IPS)
- Anish Gupta – Additional Commissioner, Customs (IRS)
This diverse composition gives the SIT both legal and administrative strength to handle the wide scope of the investigation.
Key Issues the SIT Will Investigate
The Vantara news coverage has highlighted several crucial areas of inquiry. The Supreme Court has clearly defined the scope of the SIT’s work, which goes beyond just the acquisition of animals. The issues under investigation include:
- Acquisition of Animals: Whether animals, especially elephants, were brought from India and abroad in compliance with rules.
- Legal Compliance: Adherence to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and zoo regulations.
- International Standards: Compliance with CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) and related import-export laws.
- Animal Care: Conditions of housing, medical treatment, and causes of animal deaths.
- Environmental Concerns: Impact of the project’s location near an industrial zone and its compatibility with ecological requirements.
- Conservation and Breeding: Whether animals were used for display, breeding, or commercial purposes against the principles of conservation.
- Resource Management: Use and possible misuse of water resources and irregularities in carbon credit schemes.
- Wildlife Trade: Any links with illegal wildlife trade or smuggling.
- Financial Irregularities: Allegations of mismanagement of funds and money laundering.
- Other Issues: Any additional matters that may arise during the investigation.
Powers and Support for the SIT
The SIT has been granted wide-ranging powers to gather information from multiple sources, including petitioners, officials, journalists, and independent experts. The court has directed that the SIT will receive full cooperation from:
- Central Zoo Authority
- CITES Management Authority
- Gujarat State Government, including its Forest and Police departments
- Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change
The SIT can conduct its inquiries at any location it deems necessary, ensuring no limitation on the scope of investigation.
Supreme Court’s Clarification
While forming the SIT, the Supreme Court made it clear that the order should not be interpreted as an endorsement of the allegations against Vantara. The court refrained from commenting on the merits of the case, stressing that the investigation is purely meant to ensure clarity, transparency, and public confidence in the system.
The bench also noted that the SIT’s report, due on 12th September 2025, will play a crucial role in determining further legal or regulatory action, if required.
Vantara and Its Role in Wildlife Care
Vantara, launched by Reliance Foundation, describes itself as one of the largest animal rescue and rehabilitation projects in Asia. Spread over thousands of acres in Jamnagar, Gujarat, the centre is home to a wide variety of animals rescued from circuses, illegal captivity, and poor living conditions.
According to its official claims, Vantara provides world-class facilities for veterinary care, large open enclosures, and natural habitats designed to mimic the wild. However, the growing scrutiny and the recent Vantara news developments have raised questions about transparency, legality, and long-term conservation goals.
Why This Case Matters
The Supreme Court’s decision to form an SIT is significant for multiple reasons:
- It highlights the importance of ensuring that private conservation initiatives follow national and international laws.
- It addresses growing public concern about whether rescued animals are genuinely rehabilitated or used for commercial or decorative purposes.
- It sets a precedent that even well-funded and high-profile projects must maintain accountability.
Also read: Vantara News: Supreme Court Orders SIT Probe, Vantara Responds with Commitment to Transparency
What Lies Ahead
The SIT report, expected in September 2025, will determine the next steps in this high-profile case. If violations are found, the court may direct corrective actions or even legal proceedings. If the project is cleared, the findings could boost the credibility of Vantara as a conservation initiative.
For now, all eyes remain on the SIT and its investigation. The case has already attracted widespread national attention, and Vantara news will continue to dominate headlines until the court receives the official report.
Also read: Supreme Court Orders Probe into Vantara Allegations, Forms SIT for Fact-Finding Inquiry
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s order to set up an SIT marks a turning point in the ongoing debate surrounding Vantara. While the project was established with the aim of rescuing and rehabilitating animals, allegations of rule violations cannot be ignored. The upcoming SIT report will be crucial in determining the truth and shaping the future of wildlife conservation initiatives in India.
As of now, the nation waits for the findings with keen interest, making Vantara news one of the most closely followed legal and environmental stories of 2025.
