A special investigation team appointed by India's top court has said the acquisition of animals at Vantara - a private zoo owned by the son of Asia's richest man Mukesh Ambani - was compliant with all laws.
The team of retired judges was set up last month to look into allegations that animals at Vantara were acquired unlawfully and mistreated. On Monday, it said it had found 'no foul play' in the zoo's management.
The Supreme Court had previously also said the allegations appeared unsupported, but had ordered an inquiry after claims that authorities had failed to investigate the zoo properly.
Reliance Foundation, which runs Vantara, has not commented on the latest order.
Vantara is home to 2,000 species, including elephants, tigers, and other animals. Spread over 3,500 acres, it is located in Jamnagar in the western state of Gujarat, not far from Mukesh Ambani's oil refinery - the largest in the world.
Inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March this year, Vantara was also a venue for lavish pre-wedding events that gained global attention. However, it remains closed to the public and has faced criticism from wildlife activists and conservationists due to various issues, including the harsh climate for some animals.
The shelter recently faced protests when ailing elephants were relocated there following a court's decision. Nonetheless, the court concluded that an independent inquiry exonerated the zoo's management.
