India’s Supreme Court has mandated an independent investigation into Vantara, a prominent wildlife rescue and care facility operated by the Reliance Foundation, the philanthropic arm of billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s conglomerate. The court’s decision came in response to public interest litigations filed by non-profit and wildlife groups, which alleged unlawful acquisition of animals, mistreatment, and a failure of regulatory oversight by the Central Zoo Authority. While the justices noted that these specific allegations were not supported by evidence, they ruled that an inquiry was necessary to ensure transparency and address claims that authorities were unwilling to perform their duties.
The court’s written order emphasized the need for an impartial factual appraisal, stating, “We consider it appropriate in the ends of justice to call for an independent factual appraisal.” The investigation panel will be led by a former Supreme Court judge and is tasked with examining the acquisition of animals—particularly elephants—reviewing complaints about the creation of a private collection, and ensuring compliance with India’s Wild Life Protection Act. The panel is required to submit its findings to the court by September 12.
In response to the order, a Vantara spokesperson issued a statement reaffirming the organization’s commitment to transparency and legal compliance, pledging full cooperation with the investigating panel. The facility, which is led by Mukesh Ambani’s son, Anant Ambani, has been described as a marquee project that has rescued and treated thousands of animals. It boasts the world’s largest elephant hospital and is home to over 150,000 animals across 2,000 species on a 998-acre campus in Jamnagar, Gujarat.
The Vantara center has previously received high-profile endorsements, including a visit from Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March, who praised it for providing a safe haven for animals and promoting ecological sustainability. The facility also gained international attention when it served as a venue for the pre-wedding celebrations of Anant Ambani last year, where guests were advised to wear “jungle fever” outfits. Despite this acclaim, the Supreme Court’s probe will now independently verify the operations and compliance of the high-profile conservation initiative.
