‘We Weren’t Watchful’: Jyoti Malhotra’s Old Video on Pahalgam Terror Attack Resurfaces After Arrest for Spying for Pakistan

New Delhi, May 20, 2025 — In a shocking turn of events, senior journalist Jyoti Malhotra has been arrested on charges of espionage for Pakistan, sending shockwaves through media and intelligence circles. Following her arrest, an old video of Malhotra commenting on the Pahalgam terror attack has gone viral on social media, stirring public outrage and intense scrutiny.

In the resurfaced clip, Malhotra is seen reflecting on the Pahalgam terror incident, where several civilians and security personnel lost their lives. In the video, she says, “We weren’t watchful. We let our guard down, and we paid the price.” The statement, previously viewed as a call for vigilance, is now being seen in a more controversial light, given the gravity of the espionage charges against her.

According to intelligence sources, Malhotra is alleged to have passed sensitive information related to national security to handlers connected to Pakistan's ISI. She was reportedly under surveillance for months before being detained. The arrest was carried out by a joint operation involving the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and Delhi Police Special Cell, following solid digital and financial evidence.

Officials believe that her access to high-level defense briefings and diplomatic circles as a journalist made her a potential source of intelligence leaks. “She was careful, calculated, and embedded in places where critical conversations happened. That made her dangerous,” a senior official remarked under anonymity.

The resurfacing of the Pahalgam video has reignited debates about media integrity, security, and oversight. Critics have raised questions about how someone with alleged links to hostile intelligence agencies could operate freely in the Indian press for so long.

Social media is awash with reactions. While some users expressed betrayal and demanded stricter vetting of journalists covering national security, others cautioned against rushing to conclusions before a trial. The hashtag #JyotiMalhotra began trending within hours of the news breaking.

The Press Council of India (PCI) has released a statement saying it is “deeply concerned” about the allegations and is awaiting more details before issuing further comments. News organizations previously associated with Malhotra have started distancing themselves, removing her published work from their websites.

Meanwhile, legal experts say this case could become one of India’s most high-profile espionage trials in recent years. If convicted under the Official Secrets Act, Malhotra could face significant prison time.

The Ministry of Home Affairs is expected to release a formal briefing once the initial round of interrogations is complete.