Investigation Launched into Luxury Zoo Owned by Ambani Family

Mon Sep 15 2025 18:37:54 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The Indian Supreme Court has ordered an inquiry into the private zoo, Vantara, owned by Anant Ambani, over allegations of animal mistreatment and illegal acquisition.

The Supreme Court of India has initiated an investigation into Vantara, a sprawling private zoo run by Anant Ambani, son of billionaire Mukesh Ambani. Allegations include unlawful acquisition and mistreatment of animals, with inquiries extending to wildlife law violations and potential financial irregularities. The zoo, which houses hundreds of exotic animals, has committed to cooperating fully with the investigation.

Investigators in India will visit a vast private zoo owned by the billionaire Ambani family, after the Supreme Court ordered an inquiry into allegations that animals were acquired unlawfully and mistreated.

The inquiry will also examine possible violations of wildlife laws at Vantara, as well as allegations of financial irregularities and money laundering.

The Supreme Court said there was no proof to support the allegations but ordered an inquiry because authorities had been accused of failing in their duties.

Vantara, run by Anant Ambani - son of Asia's richest man Mukesh Ambani - is home to hundreds of elephants, tigers and other animals. It has promised full cooperation with the inquiry.

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, it said, without directly commenting on the allegations.

Spread over 3,500 acres and home to some 2,000 species, Vantara bills itself as the world's largest wildlife rehabilitation centre. It was one of the venues for Anant Ambani's lavish pre-wedding events that made global headlines last year.

The animal collection is located in Jamnagar in the western state of Gujarat, not far from Mukesh Ambani's oil refinery, the largest in the world.

Vantara was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March this year, who called the effort truly commendable, while sharing glimpses of his visit on X.

But it is closed to the public and has long drawn criticism from wildlife activists and conservationists.

During the hearing on Tuesday, the Supreme Court asked the four-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) panel of four retired judges to submit its report on Vantara by September 12.

The investigation will focus on claims of illegal animal acquisition, especially of elephants, violations of wildlife laws, and allegations of financial irregularities and money laundering.

The SIT will also look into complaints regarding climatic conditions and allegations of the facility being located near an industrial zone.

Local media have reported that the SIT held its first meeting which focused on assigning roles and responsibilities to its members. The next court hearing is scheduled for September 15.