Madam N: How a Pakistani Businesswoman Ran a Spy Network Targeting Indian Influencers

Photo: X

In a shocking twist to cross-border cultural exchanges, a Pakistani travel facilitator known as ‘Madam N’ is at the center of a growing espionage scandal involving Indian YouTubers, influencers, and unsuspecting citizens. What started as a goodwill mission of heritage tourism may have masked a deeper operation orchestrated by Pakistan’s intelligence services.

Who Is Madam N?

Noshaba Shahzad Masood, CEO of Lahore-based Jayana Travel and Tourism, was widely known for helping Indians—especially from Hindu and Sikh communities—visit religious sites in Pakistan. But Indian intelligence now alleges that her humanitarian façade hid a high-stakes spy network.

The Alleged ISI Link

Indian officials claim Masood operated with the backing of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), targeting emotionally vulnerable individuals through her travel agency. Intelligence sources suggest she recruited them into a sleeper cell network across India.

The Influencer Angle

One of the first arrests in the case was popular YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra, accused of espionage after multiple Pakistan visits allegedly organized by Masood. Another suspect, Jasbir Singh, was arrested shortly after, leading authorities to uncover a broader web of digital operatives.

The Scope of the Network

According to investigators, over 3,000 Indian citizens and 1,500 NRIs were assisted by Masood’s agency in recent months—many of whom came into contact with Pakistani military officials. Her alleged ties to visa officers at the Pakistani High Commission in Delhi further deepens suspicion.

Weaponizing Religion and Memory

Authorities say religious pilgrimage was exploited as a recruitment strategy. Masood worked closely with Pakistan’s Evacuee Trust Property Board, giving her access to thousands of travelers motivated by faith and nostalgia.

Under Scrutiny: Local Indian Agents

Masood also had partnerships with Indian travel agents, now under investigation for allegedly profiling vulnerable individuals for intelligence recruitment.

The Bigger Picture

This case sheds light on the hidden risks of soft diplomacy, particularly when trust and sentiment are exploited for political gains. Investigations continue, with several more arrests expected.

Watch India Pakistan Breaking News on The Ink Post. Get Latest Updates, Latest News on Movies, Breaking News On India, World, Explainers.

Author

Kunal Verma

🖋️ Journalist | Storyteller | Researcher | Geopolitics Analyst

From newsroom chaos to the calm of a blinking cursor, Kunal Verma has spent over five years navigating the ever-evolving world of journalism. With bylines across Bharat 24, Republic World, Jagran, and more, he’s told stories that matter—be it boardroom battles in the business world, high-stakes foreign affairs, or ground reports that hit home. When he’s not chasing headlines, Kunal can be found crafting tweets with too many drafts or sipping strong coffee.

🗣️ Fluent in Hindi & English
🔗 Follow him on Twitter: @thekunalverma
View all posts