YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra Arrested in Alleged Spying Case Linked to Pakistan

Jyoti Malhotra, a popular YouTuber known for her travel content, has been arrested in connection with an alleged spying case involving contacts with the Pakistan embassy. While police have stated there is no evidence linking her to terrorist activities, they are investigating her communications with a Pakistani intelligence officer. Malhotra's case raises concerns about a broader espionage network operating in northern India. She faces serious charges under the Official Secrets Act and remains in police custody as investigations continue. This case has drawn significant attention due to her substantial online following and previous visits to Pakistan.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 22, 2025, 13:09 IST

Police Investigate YouTuber's Alleged Connections

Authorities provided updates on the espionage case involving YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra, revealing that she had been in contact with individuals associated with the Pakistan embassy. However, they clarified that there is currently no evidence linking her to any terrorist organizations or activities.

Details of the Arrest

The 33-year-old content creator, recognized for her travel vlogs on her channel 'Travel with Jo', was taken into custody last week. Law enforcement officials stated that she had communicated with a Pakistani intelligence operative named Ehsan-ur-Rahim, also referred to as Danish, and is accused of disclosing sensitive information.

No Evidence of Religious Conversion

In a WhatsApp conversation, Malhotra allegedly expressed a desire to marry in Pakistan. However, the Superintendent of Police in Hisar mentioned that no documentation has been found to support claims of her intent to convert to Islam or marry any Pakistani officials.

Connections to a Broader Spy Network

According to police, Danish, who is prohibited from entering India, introduced Malhotra to a man named Ali Ahwan, who allegedly assisted her in finding accommodation and connecting her with Pakistani officials named Shakir and Rana Shahbaz. A police spokesperson indicated that Danish was attempting to recruit her as a spy and that she had also been in touch with other YouTube influencers.

Extended Police Custody

Malhotra, along with six others, was arrested for espionage activities linked to Pakistan. She will remain in police custody for an additional four days. Reports suggest that during her interrogation, she acknowledged meeting with Pakistani agents.

Background and Charges

With a following of over 387,000 subscribers on YouTube and more than 100,000 on Instagram, Jyoti Malhotra has visited Pakistan on two occasions. During one visit, she reportedly met an official from the Pakistan High Commission in Delhi, raising suspicions among authorities. She has been interrogated by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Intelligence Bureau (IB). Malhotra faces charges under Sections 3 and 5 of the Official Secrets Act and Section 152 of the Bhartiya Nyay Sanhita Act. She is among 12 individuals arrested in recent weeks across Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, believed to be part of a larger espionage network linked to Pakistan operating in northern India.