Vlogger Jyoti Malhotra's dubious Kerala visit; central agencies launch probe

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Central agencies started an investigation into Haryana-based vlogger Jyoti Malhotra’s dubious Kerala visit ahead of her infamous travel to Pakistan. Jyoti is now under the custody of central agencies on charges of spying for Pakistan.

Meanwhile, Kerala’s tourism department denied any foul play in sponsoring Jyoti’s visit to Kerala along with an entourage of other vloggers for several regions of the country. The central agencies confirmed that Jyoti had connections with spies in Pakistan since 2023. The officials are investigating details of the prior checks made by the state government before inviting Jyoti to Kerala.

Jyoti Malhotra travelled to Kannur, Kozhikode, Kochi, Alappuzha and Munnar at the expense of the Kerala government. The list of vloggers who promoted the Tourism Department from January 2024 to May 2025 was released. It was revealed that 33-year-old Jyoti had visited Pakistan several times in the past. It was also learned that she had contacts with the intelligence department of the neighbouring nation. Jyoti also had contacts with an employee of the Pakistan High Commission. Following this, India made this official persona non grata.