The Indian Supreme Court has opened an investigation into the private Vantara zoo owned by owned by Anant Ambani (C), the son of Asia’s richest man Mukesh Ambani. File Photo by Divyakant Solanki/EPA
India’s Supreme Court ordered an investigation into a private zoo owned by the son of Asia’s richest family.
Vantara, which describes itself as the “world’s biggest wild animal rescue center,” and houses about 150,000 animals, is closed to the public and has faced criticism from wildlife activists and conservationists.
The Supreme Court has stated there wasn’t proof to support the allegations, including claims of unlawful acquisitions of animals, other wildlife regulation violations and money laundering but said an investigation was warranted.
“In the wake of the allegations that the statutory authorities or the courts are either unwilling or incapable of discharging their mandate … we consider it appropriate in the ends of justice to call for an independent factual appraisal,” it said.
The inquiry, which must be completed by Sept. 12 will also investigate claims by activists that the zoo’s location, near a giant oil refinery, creates hot and dry conditions that are not suitable for some of the species.
Vantara, owned by Anant Ambani the son of Asia’s richest man Mukesh Ambani, said it would offer “full cooperation” to the investigation.
“Vantara remains committed to transparency, compassion and full compliance with the law. Our mission and focus continues to be the rescue, rehabilitation and care of animals,” the zoo said.
