The Supreme Court on Monday ordered the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe allegations against the Vantara wildlife facility in Jamnagar, Gujarat.
The decision comes in response to two public interest litigations (PILs) alleging illegal wildlife transfers, unlawful captivity of elephants, and other violations by Vantara, which is supported by Reliance Industries and managed by Anant Ambani.
The SIT has been tasked with examining the acquisition of animals, particularly elephants; compliance with the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972; obligations under CITES; standards of veterinary care and animal welfare; allegations of a private collection; misuse of water or carbon credits; and financial irregularities.
The court has asked the SIT to submit its report by September 12, with the PILs to be listed on September 15 for further consideration.
The PILs were filed following protests in Kolhapur over the relocation of a 36-year-old elephant named Mahadevi, also known as Madhuri, to Vantara. The elephant was transferred in July under a Supreme Court order.
Vantara on Tuesday acknowledged the Supreme Court order and pledged full compliance with the law.
“We acknowledge the order of the Hon’ble Supreme Court with utmost regard. Vantara remains committed to transparency, compassion, and full compliance with the law,” the facility said in a statement.
“Our mission and focus continue to be the rescue, rehabilitation, and care of animals. We will extend full cooperation to the Special Investigation Team and continue our work sincerely, always placing the welfare of animals at the heart of all our efforts,” it added.
The SIT will be chaired by retired apex court judge Justice Jasti Chelameswar and will include former Chief Justice of Uttarakhand and Telangana High Courts Justice Raghavendra Chauhan, ex-Mumbai Police Commissioner Hemant Nagrale, and senior IRS officer Anish Gupta.
(IANS)