Travel Influencer Jyoti Malhotra’s Old Video on Pahalgam Terror Attack Sparks Controversy After Spying Allegations
Travel Influencer Arrested for Spying, Old Video on Pahalgam Attack Resurfaces
A video of travel influencer Jyoti Malhotra, who was recently arrested for allegedly spying for Pakistan, has resurfaced online. The video, uploaded shortly after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack in April 2023, shows Malhotra expressing her views on the incident and assigning responsibility not only to the government but also to individuals who were ‘not watchful enough’.
The Pahalgam Attack and Malhotra’s Response
The Pahalgam attack, which claimed the lives of 26 people, mostly tourists, triggered a four-day conflict between India and Pakistan, leading to a military operation known as Operation Sindoor. In her video, Malhotra, a popular YouTuber known for her travel channel ‘Travel with Jo’, stated that while the government bears responsibility, the individuals who visited these places also share a duty to be vigilant. She expressed concern that such an attack could happen despite the heavy security presence, suggesting a lapse in awareness and responsibility.
Malhotra’s Views on Supporting Terrorists and Security Lapses
Malhotra further asserted that anyone who supported the terrorists responsible for the attack was not truly Indian. She also criticized the government for security lapses, stating that a breach in security allowed the attack to occur.
The Spying Allegations
Following her arrest, Malhotra’s Instagram account appears to be inactive or deactivated. She was apprehended on charges of spying for Pakistan and is accused of projecting a positive image of the country on social media as part of a coordinated influence operation.
Details of the Case
According to the FIR registered against her, Malhotra came into contact with Ehsan-ur-Rahim alias Danish, a staff member at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi, during a visit in 2023. Danish is alleged to have acted as her handler, introducing her to Pakistani Intelligence Operatives (PIOs) and maintaining regular communication with her through encrypted platforms.
Malhotra reportedly made two trips to Pakistan in 2023, where she met operatives, including Ali Ehwan, Shakir, and Rana Shahbaz. To avoid suspicion, she saved their contacts under disguised names like “Jatt Randhawa.”
The case is currently under investigation by the Economic Offences Wing.
