Jyoti Malhotra, a YouTuber and resident of Hisar, Haryana, has been arrested for allegedly sharing sensitive information and maintaining continuous contact with a Pakistani citizen. Authorities believe she was being cultivated as a potential asset for Pakistani intelligence.
Superintendent of Police Shashank Kumar Sawan stated, “She was in touch with other YouTube influencers and PIOs (Pakistan Intelligence Operatives)… She visited Pakistan on what appeared to be sponsored trips.” Notably, Jyoti had traveled to Pakistan shortly before the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, and investigators are now probing possible connections.
Her videos, currently under scrutiny, reveal close associations with a Pakistani official stationed in India, who had previously faced espionage-related action from Indian authorities.
The police suspect a wider network, with leads suggesting the involvement of more individuals. “We are investigating her network and those she was in contact with,” SP Sawan added.
The case has triggered concerns over the use of social media platforms by foreign agencies to recruit or influence Indian content creators and gather sensitive information. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full scope of the operation.
