It began so small—just another travel video. All set to cover the 325th Baisakhi festival, Jyoti Malhotra headed to Pakistan once more in April 2024. What initially seemed like a spiritual pilgrimage to Sikh holy sites rapidly turned into something far more darker—and far more deadlier.

First trip: deliberate or innocent?

First 2023 trip raised some questions. She tried to make an official trip but was denied permission. That’s when she first connected with “Ehsan,” a mid-level Pakistan High Commission official. Later he would surface as Ehsan Dar, purportedly connected to ISI. What began as a favor—a few introductions, a visa—developed into covert control. Alternatively, she might have known more than she let out. That remains vague.

What Really Occurred in Pakistan?

Jyoti’s second trip in 2024 stretched almost a month—much longer than usually pilgrims. Investigators think she became much engaged in a digital influence campaign throughout that period. She posted videos extolling Pakistan’s hospitality and culture but also gently disparaging Indian policy. It’s what she omitted as much as it is what she said. Her bright stories portrayed Pakistan as misunderstood and glossed over growing conflicts.

Digital Footprints and Signals of Caution

Officials claim her “innocent” trip videos followed a pattern. Scripted compliments, chosen images and a tone alternating from enthusiasm to subdued advocacy. Behind her narrative was a subtle suggestion engine—Ehsan and his group providing her with content ideas. The most worrying item: a video posted soon following the Pahalgam terrorist assault. It shifted blame to Indian troops instead of denouncing violence.

Not Just Cameras Anymore: Spy Game 2.0

This was not James Bond. These were trending reels and YouTube thumbnails. Researchers now refer to Jyoti as a “soft target” for contemporary mixed warfare. For millions of viewers, a digital soldier—perhaps unwitting, perhaps not—is creating a sympathetic image of Pakistan.

Bigger Picture: What It Means for India

This instance involves more than only one vlogger. It’s a warning. Digital hazards rise along with influencers. Espionage nowadays goes beyond merely pilfered documents. It’s about subtle changes in public sentiment, smart captions, and viral videos. Jyoti’s narrative offers a lesson—and maybe just the starting point.