Indian YouTuber Under Investigation for Espionage After Repeated Visits to Pakistan

 New Delhi, May 21 — Indian travel vlogger Jyoti Malhotra, popularly known through her YouTube channel Travel with JO, is currently under the scanner of national security agencies following allegations of potential espionage linked to her frequent visits to Pakistan. The investigation has gained urgency in the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, which occurred just two months after Malhotra’s latest visit across the border.

Security agencies have confirmed that Malhotra, a resident of Hisar, Haryana, travelled to Pakistan twice—first in 2023 and again two months ago—raising serious concerns given the current security climate. Her visa, according to preliminary reports, was allegedly facilitated by commission agents.

Several videos and images from her travels are now circulating widely across social media platforms. In one video, Malhotra is seen dining with a group in Lahore, apparently engaged in casual conversation. A separate viral image showing her alongside Maryam Nawaz Sharif, daughter of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and currently the Chief Minister of Punjab province, has intensified scrutiny over her ties in Pakistan.

During her most recent trip, Malhotra posted vlogs from various cultural landmarks, including Lahore’s Anarkali Bazaar, the Katas Raj Temple Complex, and documented her overland journey via bus. Her video titles include “Indian Girl in Pakistan,” “Exploring Lahore,” and “Indian Girl at Katas Raj Temple.” One of her captions, “Ishq Lahore”, highlighted cross-cultural appreciation of cuisine and daily life—videos which initially attracted viewers for their soft diplomacy angle.

However, what once appeared to be innocuous travel content is now being closely reviewed by intelligence officials. Authorities are examining the nature, timing, and potential intent behind her visits, particularly in light of increasing security concerns and cross-border tensions.

The investigation remains ongoing, with agencies reportedly analysing her digital footprint, travel history, and personal associations. While no official charges have been filed at this stage, the case underscores the heightened vigilance surrounding unauthorized or suspicious interactions between Indian nationals and Pakistani entities during a sensitive geopolitical period.