Press Note Details Investigation into Espionage Case Involving Travel Blogger
Hisar Police have released a detailed press note regarding the arrest of travel blogger and YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra, who was detained on May 16, 2025, for allegedly sharing sensitive information with Pakistani intelligence operatives (PIOs). While confirming her communication with PIOs, the police found no evidence of terror links or intent to harm national security.
Key Findings: No Terror Links or Sensitive Military Knowledge
The investigation revealed that 33-year-old Jyoti Malhotra, arrested under Sections 3 and 5 of the Official Secrets Act, 1923, and Section 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Act, had no knowledge of armed forces operations or plans. Hisar Police stated, “So far, no evidence has been found of her involvement in terror activities, association with terrorist groups, or intentions to marry PIOs or change her religion.” Despite knowing her contacts were PIOs, Malhotra continued communication, raising concerns about her intentions.
Forensic Analysis Underway for Seized Devices
Police seized three mobile phones, a laptop, and other electronic devices from Malhotra, along with two mobile phones belonging to visa agent Harkirat Singh, arrested on May 18. These items have been sent to a forensic laboratory for analysis. The press note clarified that the analysis is not being conducted by Hisar Police, and no diary attributed to Malhotra, as claimed in the public domain, was recovered by them. “The pages of her ‘diary’ shown in the public domain were not recovered by us. We don’t have any diary,” the statement read.
No Public Diary or Statements Found
Hisar Police emphasized that they have not found any public statements or diary entries by Malhotra that could indicate her motives. Additionally, no handover of the case to central agencies like the National Investigation Agency (NIA) or Intelligence Bureau (IB) occurred, though both agencies questioned her during her five-day police remand.
Contact with PIOs Confirmed, No Marriage or Terror Intent
The press note reiterated that Malhotra was in touch with PIOs but lacked evidence of deeper involvement, such as plans to marry a PIO or engage in terror-related activities. “There is no evidence that the accused had any terrorist inclinations or connections,” the statement noted. However, her continued contact with PIOs, despite awareness of their identity, remains a focal point of the investigation.
Protocol Followed During Investigation
Hisar Police confirmed that Malhotra’s interrogation followed protocol, with assistance from central agencies. However, her custody remained with local authorities. The press note also denied claims of Malhotra making public statements during the investigation, stating that no such print, electronic, or social media content was found.
Case Background: Arrest and Ongoing Probe
Malhotra’s arrest followed revelations of her communication with Danish, a Pakistani High Commission official expelled from India on May 13, between November 2023 and March 2025. Introduced to Danish by visa agent Harkirat Singh, Malhotra was allegedly being developed as an asset. The case has drawn comparisons to the 2010 espionage case of diplomat Madhuri Gupta, though police have clarified that Malhotra’s actions do not yet indicate terror involvement.
Public Disclosure to Follow Official Channels
The press note concluded by stating that all findings in the case will be made public through official records after the investigation is complete. Hisar Police urged the public to rely on verified information and avoid speculation based on unconfirmed sources.
