A special investigation team established by India’s Supreme Court has concluded that the acquisition of animals at Vantara, a private zoo owned by Mukesh Ambani’s son, adhered to all legal requirements. This team, comprising retired judges, was tasked with investigating claims that the animals were unlawfully acquired and mistreated. The inquiry found no evidence of misconduct in the zoo’s operations.
Previously, the Supreme Court indicated that the allegations lacked sufficient support, yet it called for an investigation in response to concerns that authorities had not adequately examined the situation at the zoo. Vantara maintains that the findings of the investigation substantiate their position that the allegations were unfounded.
Located in Jamnagar, Gujarat, and covering 3,500 acres, Vantara houses approximately 2,000 species, including tigers and elephants. It was officially opened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March and has served as a venue for significant events related to owner Anant Ambani.
Despite its official status, Vantara has faced criticism from wildlife activists regarding the suitability of its climate for certain species and other operational concerns. Recently, the facility came under scrutiny after an elderly elephant was transferred there from a temple in Maharashtra, following a high court ruling. Protests accompanied this transfer, reflecting ongoing public concern about the zoo.
On Tuesday, the court dismissed a challenge to the transfer of the elephant, citing that a prior independent investigation had cleared the authorities of any misconduct related to the situation at Vantara.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c147kzpy113o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss