The Aryavarth Express:
New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India has dismissed a writ petition filed against Vantara, rejecting allegations related to animal imports under international wildlife trade norms governed by CITES.
In its order dated March 9, the Court found no merit in the claims and upheld earlier findings that had cleared the Jamnagar-based animal rescue and rehabilitation facility of any violations.
The Court reaffirmed the conclusions of a court-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT), whose report had already been accepted by a coordinate bench. Both the SIT and the CITES Secretariat concluded that there were no violations of domestic or international laws, and no irregularities in documentation or import procedures followed by Vantara.
The bench also observed that permissions granted under law cannot be challenged after the transfer of animals has taken place. It noted that disturbing animals already settled in a lawful environment would amount to cruelty.
The ruling effectively brings closure to another legal challenge involving Vantara, which is operated by Reliance Foundation in Jamnagar, Gujarat.
In a statement following the verdict, Vantara said that each rescued animal undergoes a comprehensive rehabilitation process supported by veterinary care, proper nutrition, and carefully designed habitats that promote natural movement and social interaction.
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The facility added that it operates within a large natural landscape and is managed by a team of veterinarians, biologists, curators, and trained caregivers. It emphasized its focus on rescue, recovery, and providing animals with conditions that mirror their natural habitats.
This latest decision follows earlier proceedings in September 2025, when the apex court had heard a separate public interest litigation alleging smuggling and mistreatment of animals at the facility. A bench comprising Justice Pankaj Mithal and Justice Prasanna B Varale had then constituted an SIT headed by former Supreme Court judge Justice Jasti Chelameswar to investigate the matter.
The SIT report examined issues including animal acquisition, welfare standards, conservation practices, financial transactions, and compliance with wildlife laws. After reviewing the findings, the Court concluded that no violations of laws related to wildlife protection, customs, foreign trade, or financial regulations had occurred.
The Court had also directed that no further proceedings based on the same allegations would be entertained. While the full report remains sealed, a summary has been made accessible.
