A massive zoo that helps thousands of animals might sound like a dream project for conservationists, but one wildlife centre in India is facing a bevy of scandals and problems. Vantara, one of the largest private zoos in the world, is owned by a member of Asia's wealthiest family. But amid continuing controversies over Vantara's treatment of animals and alleged financial scandals, India's Supreme Court has authorised an investigation into the zoo.
Vantara is "run by the philanthropic arm of billionaire Mukesh Ambani", said Reuters. Ambani is Asia's richest man, with a reported net worth of $103 billion, and his son Anant is Vantara's owner. The heir made news globally last year for his lavish wedding that reportedly cost $600 million. But the zoo has faced "allegations that animals were acquired unlawfully and mistreated", said BBC News. India's Supreme Court will "examine possible violations of wildlife laws at Vantara, as well as allegations of financial irregularities and money laundering".
In addition to checking out the claims of wildlife mistreatment, the Supreme Court-ordered investigators will also "scrutinise the standard of veterinary care, breeding programs, animal deaths in captivity and allegations that the sanctuary was being used as a 'private vanity project'", said The Telegraph.
The Supreme Court admitted that there was not yet proof of these claims, but "ordered an inquiry because authorities had been accused of failing in their duties", said BBC News. While the zoo is closed to the public, it has attracted celebrities and notable names in the past. Photos of "Indian film stars visiting the shelter made headlines" last year and the facility itself "was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi". | 
