Who is Jyoti Malhotra and Why Is She Under Investigation?

Jyoti Malhotra is a Haryana-based YouTuber with 487 videos uploaded on her channel.

  • Security agencies began investigating her after a particular video she posted right after the Pahalgam attack.
  • A Pakistani spy arrested in Mohali mentioned Jyoti’s name, which led to her arrest in Hisar, Haryana.
  • She has been questioned by Military Intelligence, Hisar Police’s Crime Branch, and now by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

What Did Jyoti Do in Her Controversial Video?

  • The video was posted just after the Pahalgam terrorist attack.
  • In it, Jyoti blamed the Indian government and citizens for the attack.
  • She pointed out that even though the army is present everywhere in Kashmir, such an attack happened.
  • Jyoti suggested that the 26 tourists who were attacked had made a mistake by visiting Kashmir.
  • The tone and content of the video were seen as creating distrust towards Indian security agencies and the government.

The Bigger Picture: Pakistan’s Alleged IT War

  • Indian agencies claim this is part of a larger IT war orchestrated by Pakistan-based terrorist organizations.
  • Pakistan reportedly cannot win a conventional war, so it has resorted to spreading disinformation and anti-India narratives online.
  • Over 20 Indian social media influencers are believed to be involved in this operation, producing content based on topics set by their handlers.
  • The goal is to promote a pro-Pakistan narrative and discredit Indian security forces in the eyes of Indian citizens.

Why Jyoti Is on the Radar

  • Her post-attack video aligned with the narratives promoted by this alleged Pakistan-backed IT war.
  • Her video questioned the effectiveness of Indian security, indirectly blaming Indian society and authorities.
  • This led to suspicion that she was part of a curative propaganda operation aimed at shaping public opinion favorably for Pakistan.