Odisha YouTuber’s suspected link with Pakistani spy: ‘NIA probe underway, guilty will not be spared’

In a significant development, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the probe into an alleged espionage link involving a popular YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra, suspected of collaborating with Pakistani intelligence operatives. The investigation comes amid growing concerns over digital platforms being misused for anti-national activities.

Another YouTuber from Odisha’s Puri, Priyanka Senapati was recently quizzed by the local police as well as officials of the IB. It is alleged that Priyanka had accompanied Jyoti during her visit to different parts of Puri including Jagannath Temple in the month of September 2024.

NIA Probing; Those Guilty Will Not Be Spared: Law Minister

Speaking on the recent developments, Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan on Monday stated that the NIA is rigorously investigating all possible connections. 

Authorities have made it clear that any individual found to have links with enemy intelligence agencies will be brought under the ambit of the investigation. 

“No one will be spared—whether they are directly involved in spying for a neighbouring country or aiding such activities in any capacity,” the Minister said.

The agency is reportedly expanding its probe to identify a wider network of individuals who may have knowingly or unknowingly shared sensitive information or collaborated with foreign elements for monetary or ideological motives.

Investigators have also warned that those found guilty will face strict legal action under the Official Secrets Act and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

NIA Office Likely to Be Set Up in Odisha

In a related development, discussions are underway regarding the establishment of a permanent NIA office in Odisha. 

Also Read: Bhubaneswar to get National Investigation Agency (NIA) branch soon

“Having an NIA branch in the state will enhance coordination on matters related to national security and expedite investigations into any activities that pose a threat to the state or the country,” the Law Minister said. 

The office, once operational, is expected to facilitate faster intelligence sharing and response time, particularly in sensitive cases involving terrorism, espionage, and cross-border threats.

The proposed branch will also aid in streamlining cases that originate from eastern and coastal India, a region increasingly viewed as strategically important in the context of internal and external security challenges.

Authorities have appealed to the public and content creators to remain vigilant and avoid unknowingly becoming tools in the hands of hostile forces. Social media platforms, while powerful, can also become vulnerable points of manipulation if not used responsibly, they said.