The Supreme Court of India has ordered an independent inquiry into the Vantara animal rescue project, led by Ambani son’s Anant Ambani. The order came after public interest petitions alleged mistreatment of animals and raised concerns over the role of the Central Zoo Authority.
Located in Jamnagar, Gujarat, the project was launched by Ambani son’s to provide a sanctuary for wildlife. According to its official website, Vantara has rescued thousands of animals and also runs the world’s largest elephant hospital. The center became widely known after hosting pre-wedding celebrations of Anant Ambani, which saw global celebrities in attendance.
During Monday’s hearing, the Supreme Court noted that while the allegations lacked direct proof, the seriousness of the claims warranted an investigation. “We consider it appropriate in the ends of justice to call for an independent factual appraisal,” the court stated in its written order.
The inquiry panel will be led by a former Supreme Court judge. It will examine how animals, particularly elephants, were acquired, review claims of the project being used for private collections, and assess compliance with India’s Wild Life Protection Act. The panel must submit its findings by September 12.
In response, a Vantara spokesperson said the initiative remains committed to transparency and will fully cooperate with the investigation. “Our mission continues to be the rescue, rehabilitation, and care of animals,” the statement read.
Spread across nearly 1,000 acres, the elephant welfare trust at Vantara is considered the largest of its kind in the world. Earlier this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the facility, praising it as a “safe haven for animals” while promoting ecological sustainability.
Apart from his animal welfare work, Ambani son’s Anant Ambani is also an executive director at Reliance Industries and actively involved in Jio Platforms.
Read Also: Supreme Court stresses AI use to cut judicial delays
