News Desk: In a major counter-espionage breakthrough, Indian security agencies have busted a sophisticated spy network with deep links to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and pro-Khalistani elements.
At least 15 individuals have been arrested across several states, including Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and others, in an ongoing operation led by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
Among the key arrests is Gagandeep Singh, who is accused of leaking highly classified military information—such as troop movements, strategic locations, and the details of a covert operation codenamed Operation Sindoor—to Pakistani intelligence operatives. Punjab’s Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav confirmed Singh’s longstanding connection with Gopal Singh Chawla, a notorious Khalistani separatist based in Pakistan. Through Chawla, Singh allegedly established contact with over 20 ISI-linked agents and received payments via domestic financial systems.
A forensic examination of Singh’s mobile device uncovered a cache of incriminating data, revealing communication with numerous Pakistani intelligence contacts. The arrest follows intensified surveillance measures launched after the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which prompted Indian agencies to crack down on suspected espionage cells across northern India.
Wider Network Exposed
As the investigation expanded, at least 12 more suspects were detained from Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. The arrests span diverse profiles—including a YouTuber, a student, a trader, and a security guard—indicating the wide reach of the espionage network.
Notably, two women with significant social media influence are among those apprehended. Jyoti Malhotra from Haryana, who commands over 377,000 YouTube subscribers and 133,000 Instagram followers, and Guzala, a 31-year-old from Punjab, were both taken into custody. Authorities believe they had direct links with Pakistani intelligence officer Ehsan-ur-Rahim, also known as Danish, who was previously stationed at the Pakistan High Commission in Delhi and later expelled from India.
State-Wise Arrests:
Punjab: 6 individuals
Haryana: 5 individuals
Uttar Pradesh: 1 individual
Other states (Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Delhi, Gujarat): 3 individuals
Methods and Channels
The accused allegedly used a range of covert methods to transmit information and receive funds, including social media platforms, cryptocurrency, UPI transfers, hawala networks, online gambling apps, and blockchain-based communication tools.
Over 10,000 social media accounts are currently under watch for potential connections to the espionage ring. The NIA, spearheading the investigation, is expected to announce more arrests as the network is dismantled.
This sweeping operation underscores the growing threat of hybrid warfare and digital espionage in India’s internal security landscape, particularly involving foreign intelligence services and extremist groups operating across borders.
