New Delhi, June 4, 2025 – Jasbir Singh arrest for spying: Authorities in Punjab arrested Punjab YouTuber Jasbir Singh, creator of the popular channel Jan Mahal, over allegations of spying for Pakistan. Police claimed Singh had ties to ISI handlers and accessed sensitive contacts during his visits to Pakistan in 2020, 2021, and 2024.
According to Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav, Singh communicated with multiple individuals under surveillance, including Jyoti Malhotra, Shakir alias Jatt Nandwa, and Ehsan-ur-Rahim alias Danish. Investigators reportedly discovered Pakistani numbers and encrypted apps on his mobile phone, intensifying suspicions of espionage.
Links to Other Influencers Raise Broader Questions
Meanwhile, authorities also questioned travel vlogger Jyoti Malhotra, who has a substantial social media following. Her alleged connection to Singh and potential involvement in espionage activities triggered deeper inquiries.
In addition, the Special State Operations Cell (SSOC) launched an expanded probe into a broader digital network that may support foreign intelligence efforts. Officials are reviewing data histories and travel logs of multiple influencers active in Punjab.
Notably, both Singh and Malhotra had previously attended cultural events in Pakistan—visits that authorities now view through the lens of national security threats. Critics, however, argue these retroactive interpretations serve political ends rather than public safety.
Sikh Groups, Digital Activists Raise Alarms
On the other hand, civil rights groups and Sikh advocacy organizations condemned the arrests. They accused the Modi-led government of weaponizing anti-terror laws like UAPA to suppress Sikh identity and dissenting voices online.
Subsequently, online platforms reported a surge in deleted content, suspended accounts, and growing pressure on creators discussing topics like Khalistan or subordinate group rights.
Furthermore, legal experts questioned the lack of hard evidence presented so far. They emphasized the potential for misuse of national security rhetoric to stifle free speech.
As Jasbir Singh arrest for spying, global Sikh communities monitor the situation—especially in the U.S., U.K., and Canada—the arrest of Punjab YouTuber Jasbir Singh may escalate diplomatic tensions and fuel conversations about India’s digital crackdown on subordinate group.
