In a major crackdown on espionage activities, Indian authorities have arrested six individuals, including a Haryana-based YouTuber, for allegedly spying for Pakistan and leaking sensitive information to Pakistani intelligence operatives.
Key Accused: Jyoti Malhotra
Among those arrested is Jyoti Malhotra, a travel blogger who ran the YouTube channel “Travel with Jo”. Malhotra allegedly visited Pakistan in 2023 and established connections with Pakistani intelligence operatives, including Ehsan-ur-Rahim alias Danish, a staff member at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi.
Authorities claim Malhotra remained in contact with operatives via encrypted platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and Snapchat, sharing sensitive information about Indian locations. Investigators also allege that she promoted a positive image of Pakistan on social media and had an intimate relationship with a Pakistani intelligence operative, traveling with him to Bali, Indonesia.
Other Arrests and Espionage Network
The espionage network reportedly spanned across Haryana and Punjab, involving individuals acting as agents, financial conduits, and informants.
Among the other accused:
- Guzala, a 32-year-old widow from Malerkotla, Punjab, who allegedly received financial incentives from Danish and was persuaded to switch to Telegram for communication.
- Devinder Singh Dhillon, a Sikh student from Kaithal, Haryana, who allegedly sent videos of Patiala cantonment to Pakistani operatives.
- Arman from Nuh, Haryana, accused of providing Indian SIM cards, transferring funds, and attending the Defence Expo 2025 on instructions from Pakistani handlers.
Legal Action and Investigation
Malhotra has been charged under Section 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Sections 3, 4, and 5 of the Official Secrets Act, 1923. A written confession has reportedly been obtained, and the case has been handed over to the Economic Offences Wing, Hisar.
Authorities believe the case is part of a larger espionage operation, where vulnerable individuals were manipulated through emotional, financial, and social incentives.
Further investigations are underway to uncover additional links and strengthen national security measures.
