YouTuber’s Alleged Espionage Linked to Pahalgam Terror Attack

National: YouTuber’s Alleged Espionage Linked to Pahalgam Terror Attack

Arrest and Allegations

Haryana-based YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra was arrested last week on espionage charges, suspected of aiding Pakistan in planning the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 tourists. Investigations reveal she visited Pahalgam months before the attack, allegedly gathering information for Pakistani operatives.

Ties to Pakistani Operatives

Malhotra is accused of maintaining close contact with Danish, a Pakistan High Commission official linked to the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Authorities believe Danish recruited her during her 2023 visit to Pakistan, leveraging her role as a travel vlogger to gather sensitive intelligence.

Pre-Attack Reconnaissance

Police investigations indicate Malhotra visited Pahalgam three months prior to the attack, filming videos that may have been shared with Pakistani agents. Her travel history, including multiple trips to Pakistan and one to China, has raised suspicions of coordinated espionage activities.

Operation Sindoor Context

The arrest coincides with heightened India-Pakistan tensions following Operation Sindoor, India’s retaliatory strike targeting terrorist sites after the Pahalgam attack. Malhotra’s alleged communications with Danish during this period suggest she was being developed as a Pakistani intelligence asset.

Digital Footprint

Operating the YouTube channel “Travel With Jo,” Malhotra’s social media presence, including a 2023 video from a Pakistan High Commission Iftar event in Delhi, drew scrutiny. Her Instagram account has since been suspended in India as investigations deepen.

Network of Contacts

Malhotra reportedly met Ali Ahsan, who introduced her to individuals linked to Pakistan’s intelligence and defense sectors. Authorities allege she transmitted sensitive national security information, compromising India’s defense apparatus.

Ongoing Investigation

Haryana Police are intensifying their probe into Malhotra’s activities, focusing on her communications and travel patterns. The case has sparked concerns about the exploitation of digital platforms for espionage.

Broader Implications

The case highlights vulnerabilities in cross-border intelligence operations, with social media influencers potentially being co-opted for espionage. It underscores the need for enhanced cybersecurity and vigilance in monitoring cross-national interactions.

Key Details of the Case

The following table summarizes critical aspects of the investigation:

Call for Action

The revelations call for stricter oversight of digital influencers and their international engagements. Authorities are urged to bolster counter-intelligence measures to prevent similar breaches in national security.