‘With utmost humility and gratitude, we welcome the findings’: Vantara on Supreme Court SIT report
New Delhi: Vantara expressed deep gratitude after the Special Investigation Team (SIT), appointed by the Supreme Court of India on Monday, cleared the organisation of all allegations in the animal welfare probe.
“With utmost humility and gratitude, we welcome the findings of the Special Investigation Team (SIT), appointed by the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India. The SIT's report and the Hon’ble Supreme Court’s order have made it clear that the doubts and allegations raised against Vantara’s animal welfare mission were without any basis. The validation of the truth by the distinguished and widely respected members of the SIT is not just a relief for everyone at Vantara but also a blessing, because it allows our work to speak for itself,” the statement read.
The statement highlighted that the validation from the respected members of the SIT is not only a relief but a blessing that allows their work to speak for itself. “The SIT’s findings and the Apex Court’s order give us further strength and encouragement to continue serving with humility and devotion to those who cannot speak for themselves,” the statement added.
The SIT’s findings, coupled with the Supreme Court’s order, have strengthened the organisation’s resolve. “The entire Vantara family expresses heartfelt gratitude for this affirmation and reassures everyone of our lifelong commitment to protecting and caring for animals and birds with compassion.”
“Vantara has always been about love, compassion, and responsibility towards the voiceless among us. Every animal we rescue, every bird we heal, every life we save is a reminder that their well-being is not separate from our own — it is an inseparable part of the well-being of all humanity. When we care for animals, we are also caring for the soul of humanity,” the statement read, underscoring Vantara’s core values of compassion and responsibility.
The organisation also pledged its solidarity with the government and other stakeholders working in animal welfare. “We take this occasion to pledge our solidarity with the Government of India, State Governments, and all other stakeholders involved in the huge and challenging task of animal care, and affirm that that Vantara will always be ready to work in close collaboration with them. Let’s together make Mother Earth a better place for all living beings.”
The SIT had been constituted by the Supreme Court on 25 August, headed by a former apex court judge, to conduct a fact-finding inquiry following allegations of non-compliance with laws and acquisition of animals from India and abroad, particularly elephants.
The SIT formation came after the court was hearing two PILs alleging irregularities against Vantara, based on media and social media reports, along with diverse complaints from NGOs and wildlife organisations.