A special investigation team appointed by India's top court has determined that the acquisition of animals at Vantara, a private zoo owned by the son of Asia's richest man Mukesh Ambani, complied with all legal regulations.
This investigative team, composed of retired judges, was established last month to address allegations hinging on the unlawful acquisition and mistreatment of animals at Vantara. On Monday, they concluded their findings stating there was 'no foul play' in the management of the zoo.
Previously, the Supreme Court hinted at the allegations lacking supportive evidence but called for an inquiry due to concerns regarding the adequacy of prior investigations into the zoo.
Though Reliance Foundation, which oversees Vantara, has not yet commented on the recent order, the zoo is noted for housing approximately 2,000 animal species, including elephants and tigers, across its 3,500 acres located in Jamnagar, Gujarat. This facility is in close proximity to Ambani's oil refinery, the largest in the world.
Inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March 2025, Vantara had previously garnered headlines for its lavish events tied to Anant Ambani's pre-wedding celebrations. The zoo, which is not accessible to the public, has faced criticism from wildlife advocates about its suitability for certain animals given the region's harsh climate.
Recently, it witnessed protests in Maharashtra following the relocation of an ill elephant from a temple to Vantara as ordered by a high court, which the Supreme Court upheld by dismissing objections against the transfer, citing a previous independent inquiry that cleared authorities of any wrongdoing.
