The Supreme Court has dismissed a petition seeking a fresh investigation into the international acquisition and transfer of animals to Vantara (Greens Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre) in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The court noted that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by retired Supreme Court judge Justice J. Chelameswar had already conducted a thorough probe and found no violations of law.
Bench's Observations
A bench comprising Justices P. K. Mishra and N. V. Anjaria observed that the SIT's terms of reference were of the widest amplitude, covering every aspect of Vantara's operations from its inception. The court stated, "Upon consideration, we are of the clear opinion that none of the directions prayed for can be granted."
Allegations Dismissed
The court found no merit in the allegation that new materials had emerged from inquiries or prosecutions in countries such as Brazil, the UAE, Uganda, Peru, Malaysia, and Venezuela, which could have bearing on the international acquisition and transfer of animals. The bench said all issues raised now had already been addressed by the SIT, and there was no need for a fresh examination.
Thorough Process of SIT
The court highlighted the thoroughness of the SIT's process. "The process adopted by the SIT was thorough. It held several meetings, conducted site inspections, afforded opportunity to all concerned to submit information and documents, examined the foreign donor zoos and entities," the court said. The SIT also called for and considered responses from CITES Management Authorities of the UAE, Venezuela, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and others, and obtained information from agencies including the CBI, ED, DRI, Commissioner of Customs at Jamnagar, WCCB, and district police.
Hearing of Complainants
Notice was issued to complainants, journalists, and environmentalists who had published or raised allegations, including those whose reports the petitioner now relied upon. Each person who appeared before the SIT was heard.
Finality of SIT Report
In view of the SIT report, which was accepted by the court on September 15, 2025, and affirmed on March 9, 2026, the court said the respondent "cannot be investigated, inquired into, much less prosecuted, in respect of the transfers therein examined." No direction can be issued to any domestic authority regarding the specimens transferred, and the matter cannot be reopened at the instance of any body, global or otherwise.
