A Supreme Court-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) has zeroed in on Reliance’s massive 3,500-acre animal rescue and conservation facility, Vantara, in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The team, led by former Supreme Court judge J. Chelameswar and backed by other ex-judges and senior enforcement officers, landed at the site armed with a 195-question dossier. The queries range from the legality of animal acquisitions to suspicions of financial irregularities and possible money laundering. With a deadline set for 12 September, the stage is being prepared for what could become one of the most closely watched courtroom battles involving a corporate giant.
Deep Dive: What the Questionnaire Seeks
The SIT’s questionnaire is nothing short of exhaustive. It demands clarity on the financial backbone of Vantara, including sources of funding, donations, and partnerships. Questions also probe whether the facility’s wildlife acquisitions both domestic and international comply with the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, zoo regulations, and foreign trade norms. Top Reliance executives, including the CFO and directors, were put in the spotlight during the SIT’s three-day on-ground audit.
Adding further complexity, the SIT has sought a full disclosure of international donors and partners who may have contributed animals to the project. This move signals that investigators are not only examining domestic legalities but also possible cross-border compliance issues, which could open the door to scrutiny by global agencies.
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Next Moves: Wider Net and Growing Scrutiny
The probe is set to expand beyond Jamnagar. The SIT is considering roping in the CBI, ED, DRI, and customs authorities to track every complaint linked to Vantara. Wildlife and Forest Department officials from states like Assam, Tripura, and Arunachal Pradesh have also been summoned, given their role in wildlife transfers. In a rare move, the SIT has reached out to NGOs, activists, journalists, and petitioners who have raised red flags, encouraging them to provide evidence that could support or challenge the allegations.
Although the Supreme Court bench has noted that many of the charges currently stem from unverified claims, the SIT’s findings will be crucial in deciding whether the project remains a pioneering conservation effort or becomes mired in prolonged legal battles.
With Reliance’s reputation and the future of Vantara hanging in the balance, the coming weeks are set to test the project’s transparency, credibility, and resilience like never before.