SC backs Vantara elephant case: ‘We’re accepting the report…of an independent committee’

The Supreme Court on Monday orally observed that the acquisition of animals by the Vantara (Greens Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre), run by the Reliance Foundation at Jamnagar, Gujarat, is prima facie within the regulatory framework.

According to a LiveLaw report, the Special Investigation Team (SIT), led by former Supreme Court judge Justice J Chelameswar, investigated allegations regarding compliance with Indian and international laws in the acquisition of animals including elephants and found no irregularities or foul play in the process.

Bench accepts independent report

A bench of Justices Pankaj Mithal and PB Varale stated that they had deliberately refrained from reading the SIT report in detail before the hearing. LiveLaw noted that after a cursory perusal in open court, Justice Mithal remarked: “Acquisition of animals… carried out in regulatory compliance.” He added that the court would accept the report of the independent committee emphasising that the findings had been based on expert review.

Concerns Over confidentiality

Senior Advocate Harish Salve, appearing for Vantara, cautioned against making the full SIT report public. Salve argued that the facility represents a “world-class” model for animal care and commercial confidentiality must be respected regarding its methods and operations. He further warned that unnecessary narratives in the media could undermine the institution’s reputation. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta also raised objections to publishing the entire report.

Supreme Court’s firm stand

Responding to these concerns, Justice Mithal clarified that while the court was accepting the report, it would not allow further objections to be raised repeatedly on the same issue. LiveLaw quoted him as saying: “We are satisfied with the report of the Committee… Now, we have a report of an independent committee, they have gone through everything, they have taken help of experts. Whatever they have submitted, we will go by that.” The bench emphasised that authorities remain free to act on the recommendations and suggestions in the report.

National pride in properly maintained elephants

The court also underlined the cultural significance of elephants in India, drawing parallels with their use in temples and festivals like Mysore Dussehra. Justice Mithal remarked that if acquisitions are done lawfully, they should not attract unnecessary controversy, observing that, as per LiveLaw, “we should not unnecessarily rake up all these matters and raise hue and cry for the sake of that. Allow certain good things to happen to the country.”

Closing the matter

The bench appreciated the SIT’s promptness and even suggested that an honorarium be provided for its work. The judges declared that they were closing the case with acceptance of the independent committee’s report. to the Committee.

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