Punjab Police have arrested Jasbir Singh, a well-known YouTuber with over 1.1 million subscribers on his channel ‘Jaan Mahal’, for allegedly being involved in a Pakistan-backed espionage network.
Singh, a resident of Mahlan village in Rupnagar district, is accused of allegedly maintaining close contact with Pakistani intelligence operatives, including ISI-linked handler Shakir alias Jutt Randhawa, and previously arrested YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra.
Officials say Singh allegedly attempted to erase digital evidence of his communications after Malhotra’s arrest. He has been remanded to three days of police custody as investigations continue to uncover further alleged collaborators and dismantle the broader espionage network.
Digital Influencer’s Arrest Allegedly Exposes Extensive Espionage Nexus
Jasbir Singh’s arrest came after Punjab’s State Special Operations Cell (SSOC), based in Mohali, acted on credible intelligence regarding a covert espionage network operating within India. According to police, Singh allegedly maintained regular communication with multiple Pakistani handlers linked to the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), including Shakir alias Jutt Randhawa and Ehsan-ur-Rahim alias Danish, a former official of the Pakistan High Commission who was expelled from India.
Singh is also reported to have attended the Pakistan National Day celebrations held in Delhi at Danish’s invitation, where he allegedly interacted with Pakistani Army officials and vloggers. Forensic examination of Singh’s electronic devices has revealed numerous Pakistan-based contact numbers and encrypted messages, which are currently under detailed investigation.
Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav stated, “The swift action by SSOC Mohali has uncovered a significant espionage network that posed a serious threat to national security. We remain committed to neutralising all such anti-national elements.”
Network’s Alleged Reach and Ongoing Crackdown Across States
Jasbir Singh is the second YouTuber arrested in recent weeks in connection with this espionage ring, following the arrest of Haryana-based YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra. Authorities allege that Singh travelled to Pakistan three times—in 2020, 2021, and early 2024—where he reportedly met with Pakistani intelligence operatives and received instructions.
After Malhotra’s arrest, Singh allegedly attempted to delete all digital traces of his communications with foreign handlers to evade detection.
The investigation is ongoing, with police working closely with national intelligence agencies to identify and apprehend other alleged members of this network, which is believed to have operatives across Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. An FIR has been registered against Singh and others, and more arrests are expected as the probe intensifies.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The arrest of Jasbir Singh highlights the complex challenges posed by the misuse of digital platforms in the modern era. While social media has empowered voices and fostered connectivity, it can also be exploited for nefarious purposes such as espionage and spreading misinformation.
The Logical Indian firmly believes in the power of peace, dialogue, empathy, and coexistence as foundations for a harmonious society. At the same time, safeguarding national security is paramount. It is crucial that authorities act decisively against such alleged threats while ensuring that digital freedoms and rights are respected.
As this investigation unfolds, we invite our readers to reflect: How can we collectively promote responsible digital citizenship and create a safer online environment that resists exploitation without stifling free expression? Share your thoughts and join the conversation to help build a more secure and inclusive society.
