By The Sampadak Express
The arrest of Haryana-based social media influencer Jyoti Malhotra on charges of spying for Pakistan has sparked major revelations, with investigators alleging she was being groomed as a long-term “narrative warfare” asset by Pakistani intelligence.
Malhotra, known for her YouTube channel Travel with JO, had made multiple trips to Pakistan, sharing videos of her visits online. According to police sources, she gained access to diplomatic circles, even attending events hosted at the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi videos of which remain on her channel.
Key Figure: Expelled Diplomat Ehsan-ur-Rahim alias Danish
A central figure in the ongoing investigation is Ehsan-ur-Rahim, also known as Danish, a Pakistani officer previously posted at the High Commission. Officials allege Malhotra came in contact with Danish during her 2023 visa application process. Their communication reportedly began with phone conversations and soon deepened.
Hisar Superintendent of Police Shashank Kumar Sawan stated that Danish had built a rapport with Malhotra during escalating tensions between India and Pakistan in April, following the Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 civilians dead.
Danish was expelled by India on May 13 for alleged espionage, just days after a ceasefire understanding was reached. Soon after, Malhotra was arrested.
Meetings with Pakistani Officials and Use of Code Names
According to the FIR registered at Civil Lines Police Station on May 16, Malhotra’s stay in Pakistan was facilitated by another key contact, Ali Ahwan. During that visit, she allegedly met Pakistani intelligence operatives identified as Shakir and Rana Shahbaz. Malhotra admitted to saving one operative’s contact under a false name, “Jat Randhawa,” to evade suspicion.
Upon her return to India, she remained in communication with her contacts via WhatsApp, Snapchat, and Telegram, and allegedly began transmitting sensitive information.
Money Trail and Foreign Trips Under Scrutiny
Authorities are now tracing the financial transactions behind Malhotra’s international travel. Investigators are probing whether her trips to Pakistan and China where she reportedly received VIP treatment were funded by foreign agencies.
The case continues to unfold, with security agencies focused on uncovering the full extent of her network and potential impact on national security.
