Why Did Hisar Court Extend Jyoti Malhotra's Custody?
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Synopsis
A recent court ruling in Hisar has extended the custody of social media influencer Jyoti Malhotra by two weeks amid serious espionage allegations. This unfolding situation has raised significant concerns about national security, especially with links to an alleged espionage network involving another YouTuber. Stay tuned as we dive deeper into the ramifications of this case.
Key Takeaways
- Judicial custody of Jyoti Malhotra extended.
- Charges include espionage under Official Secrets Act.
- Connections to another YouTuber linked to Pakistani intelligence.
- Investigations ongoing regarding national security threats.
- Importance of safeguarding classified information.
Chandigarh, June 23 (NationPress) A court in Haryana's Hisar has decided to prolong the judicial custody of social media influencer Jyoti Malhotra for an additional two weeks. Malhotra was taken into custody last month on allegations of espionage.
On May 16, police apprehended Malhotra, known for her YouTube channel 'Travel with JO'.
She faces charges under the Official Secrets Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). During the court proceedings, she appeared virtually.
Her attorney, Kumar Mukesh, informed reporters: “The court has extended her judicial remand by 14 days, with the next hearing scheduled for July 7.”
Following Malhotra's arrest, Punjab Police claimed to have uncovered a significant espionage network linked to another YouTuber, Jasbir Singh, from Rupnagar.
Singh, who runs the YouTube channel 'JaanMahal', was found to have connections with a Pakistani intelligence operative named Shakir, also known as Jutt Randhawa, who is part of a terror-associated espionage network.
He reportedly maintained close ties with Malhotra and Ehsan-ur-Rahim, alias Danish, a Pakistani national previously associated with the Pakistan High Commission, as per statements from Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav on X.
Investigations revealed that Singh attended the Pakistan National Day event in Delhi at Danish's invitation, where he interacted with officials from the Pakistani army and bloggers.
He has made three trips to Pakistan (in 2020, 2021, and 2024), and his electronic devices are currently under forensic examination due to the presence of multiple Pakistani phone numbers, as stated by the DGP.
In the wake of Jyoti Malhotra's arrest, Singh attempted to erase all evidence of his communications with these Pakistani intelligence operatives to evade capture.
Additionally, the Counter-Intelligence Punjab, in collaboration with the Tarn Taran police, arrested a man linked to Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) for disseminating sensitive information concerning military movements during Operation Sindoor.
The individual has been identified as Gagandeep Singh, alias Gagan, from Tarn Taran.
DGP Yadav stated that preliminary investigations suggest Gagandeep had maintained a five-year direct contact with a Khalistani supporter, Gopal Singh Chawla, through whom he was introduced to Pakistani intelligence agents.
Investigations also revealed that Gagandeep was sharing classified information, including details about troop deployments and strategic locations during Operation Sindoor, which posed a significant threat to national security.
The DGP confirmed that police teams recovered two mobile devices from Gagandeep, containing sensitive intelligence shared with the Pakistani operatives, along with details of over 20 ISI contacts. He also received payments from operatives using Indian channels.
Point of View
We stand firmly against any activities that threaten national security. The cases of Jyoti Malhotra and her alleged connections to espionage networks serve as a reminder of the pressing need for vigilance in safeguarding our nation's interests. We support thorough investigations and steadfastly uphold the law in the face of such serious allegations.
NationPress
23/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges is Jyoti Malhotra facing?
Jyoti Malhotra is facing charges of espionage under the Official Secrets Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
When was Jyoti Malhotra arrested?
Jyoti Malhotra was arrested on May 16.
What is the next hearing date for her case?
The next hearing for Jyoti Malhotra's case has been scheduled for July 7.
What connections have been made with other individuals?
Malhotra is linked to another YouTuber, Jasbir Singh, who is suspected of being part of an espionage network connected to Pakistani intelligence.
What implications does this case have for national security?
The case raises concerns about potential espionage activities and the risks posed to national security, highlighting the need for thorough investigations.
