Indian YouTuber Arrested on Suspicion of Spying for Pakistan

Hadisur Rahman, JadeTimes Staff

H. Rahman is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Asia

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Image Source: Jyoti Malhotra

Police in India have arrested Jyoti Malhotra, a travel influencer from Haryana, on suspicions of espionage for Pakistan. Malhotra, who has gained a following of 377,000 subscribers on YouTube and 133,000 followers on Instagram, allegedly traveled to Pakistan multiple times, with her most recent visit occurring in March 2025.

Authorities in Haryana claim that Malhotra was in contact with a Pakistani High Commission official, Ahsan-ur-Rahim, who was expelled from India earlier this month for activities deemed inconsistent with his official status. Malhotra's father has denied the allegations, asserting that she obtained the necessary permissions for her travels.

Describing herself on social media as a "modern girl with old ideas," Malhotra has documented her travels to various countries, including Bangladesh, China, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia. However, police are questioning how she financed her extensive travel, suggesting that her known sources of income do not align with her lifestyle.

Investigators allege that Malhotra maintained contact with "Pakistani intelligence operatives" and had ongoing communication with a Pakistani citizen. Superintendent of Police Shashank Kumar Sawan indicated that the investigation may extend to other individuals who could have collaborated with her, although he noted that she does not have direct access to military or defense information.

Malhotra's arrest follows a period of heightened military tensions between India and Pakistan. On May 7, India conducted strikes against what it described as "terror infrastructure" in Pakistan, shortly after a militant attack on tourists in Pahalgam, a popular destination in Indian-administered Kashmir. Pakistan has denied any involvement in the attack. Following four days of clashes, both nations agreed to a ceasefire on May 10, facilitated by U.S. President Donald Trump.

The case highlights the ongoing complexities of India-Pakistan relations, where allegations of espionage are not uncommon. Malhotra's last video featuring Pakistan was uploaded in March, showcasing her attendance at a Ramadan dinner at the Pakistan High Commission in Delhi, as well as visits to Hindu and Sikh temples and local markets.

As the investigation continues, the implications of her arrest may resonate beyond her personal circumstances, reflecting the broader geopolitical tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.