Hisar Court Extends Custody Of Social Media Influencer Jyoti Malhotra By Two Weeks

A court in Hisar, Haryana, on Monday extended the judicial custody of social media influencer Jyoti Malhotra by two more weeks. Malhotra, who was arrested on 16 May on charges of espionage, appeared before the court virtually. She runs a YouTube channel titled ‘Travel with JO’.

Authorities booked her under the Official Secrets Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Her lawyer, Kumar Mukesh, said the next hearing is scheduled for 7 July.

Jasbir Singh linked to Pakistan-based operatives

Following Malhotra’s arrest, Punjab Police uncovered a broader espionage network involving another YouTuber, Jasbir Singh from Rupnagar. He runs the channel ‘JaanMahal’ and has been linked to Pakistani intelligence operative Shakir, alias Jutt Randhawa.

Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav stated that Jasbir maintained close contact with Malhotra and Ehsan-ur-Rahim, alias Danish, a Pakistani national and expelled High Commission official.

Jasbir attended Pakistan’s National Day event in Delhi at Danish’s invitation and met Pakistani army officers and bloggers. He travelled to Pakistan three times—in 2020, 2021, and 2024.

Forensic teams are examining his devices, which contain several Pakistan-based contacts. After Malhotra’s arrest, Jasbir allegedly deleted all communications with Pakistani operatives to avoid detection.

In a separate joint operation, Counter-Intelligence Punjab and Tarn Taran police arrested Gagandeep Singh, alias Gagan, for leaking sensitive military information during Operation Sindoor.

DGP Yadav said Gagandeep had been in contact with Pakistan-based Khalistani supporter Gopal Singh Chawla for five years. Chawla introduced him to ISI handlers. The accused reportedly shared troop locations, deployment data, and strategic intelligence.

Police recovered two mobile phones containing critical intelligence and contacts of over 20 ISI agents. Officials also confirmed that Gagandeep received payments from Pakistani operatives through Indian channels.

The police continue to investigate the expanding espionage network involving multiple Indian nationals.

Also Read: SC Guidelines On Demolitions Protect Citizens’ Dignity And Security: CJI Gavai