New Delhi [India], August 26 (HBTV): The Supreme Court on Monday formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by Justice Jasti Chelameswar to conduct a fact-finding inquiry into allegations of unlawful acquisition of animals and their mistreatment in Vantara Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat.

The court directed the SIT to complete its inquiry and submit a report by September 12. The matter will be heard next on September 15. The four-member SIT will also examine issues such as compliance with wildlife protection laws, international trade regulations, animal welfare standards, and environmental concerns.

The order was passed on a plea filed by CR Jaya Sukin, who alleged that animals, including elephants, birds, and other endangered species, are being unlawfully acquired and smuggled into Vantara under the pretext of providing a wildlife rescue and rehabilitation facility.

The apex court observed that the allegations were based on ‘no material of probative worth’ and ordinarily such petitions would warrant dismissal at the outset. It therefore did not seek a response from the private respondents, the owners of Vantara, on the plea.

‘Considering the sweep of the allegations made in the petitions, inviting a counter from the private respondent or any other party will not serve much purpose,’ the court added.

However, the bench noted that given the allegations that statutory authorities or courts are unwilling to fulfil their mandate without verifying the factual situation, it found it appropriate to call for an independent factual inquiry to determine any alleged violations in Vantara.

The order was passed by a bench of Justices Pankaj Mithal and Prasanna B Varale.

(ANI)