Priyanka Senapati under police scrutiny after hosting accused Haryana-based YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra
Puri, Odisha — Local police in Odisha have summoned popular YouTuber Priyanka Senapati for questioning after it emerged that she had hosted and accompanied Haryana-based content creator Jyoti Malhotra, also known as Jyoti Rani, during a visit to Puri in September 2024. Malhotra was recently arrested on charges of espionage for allegedly sharing sensitive Indian military information with Pakistan.
Authorities say Senapati is not an accused in the case but is being questioned as part of the ongoing investigation. Her family has stated they are fully cooperating with law enforcement.
Allegations of espionage trigger wider investigation
Malhotra’s arrest has sent shockwaves through India’s digital content community. According to police, she is believed to have passed on confidential information to Pakistan, and five others have also been arrested in connection with the case.
Senapati’s father, speaking to local media, said the family was unaware of Malhotra’s alleged activities at the time of her visit.
“I was not aware of anything. It was recently that I learned that Jyoti Malhotra has been arrested on charges of spying. My daughter Priyanka is a YouTuber, and she had come in contact with Jyoti, who had visited Puri in September 2024,” he said.
He further explained that Priyanka’s interactions with Malhotra were limited to professional collaboration as content creators. “Priyanka had visited Kartarpur some 3 to 4 months back. Priyanka had developed a friendship with Jyoti as a YouTuber, and it was a completely professional relationship. My daughter had visited Kartarpur to make some videos. As a friend, my daughter had accompanied Jyoti during her visit to Puri,” he added.
Senapati denies any knowledge of alleged espionage
In a social media statement, Priyanka Senapati distanced herself from the controversy, expressing shock over Malhotra’s arrest.
“Jyoti was just a friend of mine, and I came in contact with her through YouTube. I was unaware of anything that she is accused of. I would not have been in touch with her if I knew she was spying for an enemy country,” she wrote.
Reiterating her willingness to assist with the investigation, she added, “I knew her professionally through content creation and was personally shocked to hear this. If any investigation wish to cross question, I would provide full cooperation.”
Digital influencers under increased scrutiny
This latest development underscores growing concerns over the misuse of digital platforms for subversive purposes. With the line between content creation and international networking becoming increasingly blurred, authorities are likely to tighten oversight of influencer collaborations, particularly those involving international travel or unexplained associations.
While Priyanka Senapati’s involvement currently appears limited to hosting a fellow creator, investigators are continuing to examine whether any activities during Malhotra’s trip to Puri may have contributed to the broader espionage operation.
