Security agencies have discovered a pattern in YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra's videos, raising concerns about national security. Border region information, links to an ISI module, and international travels are under scrutiny.
Jyoti Malhotra: The case involving YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra is becoming increasingly serious. A joint investigation by the Haryana Police, NIA, and IB has unearthed facts that not only raise national security concerns but also point towards an international espionage network.
Sources indicate that investigating agencies have found a specific pattern in Malhotra's videos. While many purported to focus on religious sites, they contained limited religious information and instead highlighted details of security arrangements in border regions. This pattern suggests a deeper conspiracy.
Focus on Border Region Security in Videos
The most striking finding is that Malhotra's videos emphasized border region activities more than religious sites. Sensitive areas like the India-Pakistan border and the India-Afghanistan border were prominently featured, highlighting security forces' deployment, checkpoints, and movements.
Investigators stated this wasn't typical travel vlogging; border region security was deliberately captured on camera. A similar pattern was repeated in a blog related to Afghanistan.
Suspected Links to an ISI Module
The investigation suggests Malhotra's activities may be part of a larger module linked to Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The module's aim was allegedly to gather intelligence through social media and portray a distorted image of India internationally.
This network reportedly comprised individuals operating as freelancers, independent journalists, or YouTubers. Suspicions exist that Malhotra worked for this network.
Withheld Information and Attempts to Mislead During Interrogation
The joint investigation team questioned Malhotra for several hours. During this, she attempted to conceal crucial information and mislead the investigation.
The investigation revealed that Malhotra lied about her relationship with a Pakistani operative, Danish. Her mobile phone contained apps that automatically deleted chats within 24 hours, further deepening suspicion.
Devices Sent for Forensic Examination
Malhotra's two mobile phones and a laptop have been sent for forensic examination to retrieve deleted data. The investigation aims to identify individuals with whom she shared information and any sensitive visuals she transmitted.
International Travels Under Scrutiny
Investigating agencies have begun reviewing Malhotra's international travels, including trips to Pakistan, China, Bangladesh, Nepal, Thailand, Dubai, Indonesia, and Bhutan. Her visits to Pakistan and China are under intense scrutiny.
Malhotra travelled to Pakistan on May 17, 2014, to cover the Baisakhi festival. However, she remained there for an additional 20 days after the festival ended, raising suspicion. Within a month of returning, she travelled to China. Agencies are now investigating whether the China trip was planned during her stay in Pakistan.
