Supreme Court Receives Sealed Report on Vantara Wildlife Allegations
In a key development, the Supreme Court of India has received a sealed report from the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing serious claims against Vantara, the wildlife rescue center in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The SIT, set up by the top court, looked into allegations of illegal animal acquisitions at the facility, which is known for rescuing and rehabilitating animals.
A bench of Justices Pankaj Mithal and Prasanna B. Varale accepted the report on September 13. It came in a sealed cover, complete with annexures and evidence on a pen drive. The court simply noted, "It is accepted and directed to be taken on record."
As reported earlier, the SIT spent three full days at Vantara. They roped in experts from various state forest departments and other agencies to dig deep. Senior leaders from Vantara faced tough questioning during the visit. The team even asked the center to bring in its international partners for more checks.
The SIT was headed by former Supreme Court judge Justice Jasti Chelameswar. It sprang into action following a petition by CR Jaya Sukin. She accused Vantara of illegally grabbing animals like elephants, birds, and endangered species. According to her, the center smuggled animals in, pretending to run a legit wildlife rescue and rehabilitation program. This raised red flags on wildlife protection laws, global trade rules, and animal welfare standards in India.
When reached out for Vantara’s side on the SIT probe, the organization stressed its commitment to the rules. A Vantara official said, "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 statement went on: "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. We request that the process be allowed to take place without speculation and in the best interest of the animals we serve."
The Supreme Court formed the SIT on August 25, 2025, giving it a tight deadline. The team had to check everything from wildlife protection compliance and international trade rules to animal husbandry standards, environmental impact, and the center’s location near industrial areas. True to the order, they submitted the report by September 12.
This Vantara investigation highlights growing concerns over animal smuggling and wildlife rescue ethics in India. As the sealed report stays under wraps for now, all eyes are on what the Supreme Court decides next.
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