Bhagalpur: Security at the revered Ajgaivinath temple in Sultanganj is being significantly upgraded following revelations that Jyoti Malhotra, a YouTuber from Haryana, accused of spying for Pakistan, had visited the area during the 2023 Shravani Mela.
Police have launched a comprehensive security review of the temple, with 16 new CCTV cameras set to be installed across the premises. Temple head priest, Mahant Premanand Giri, confirmed that while cameras were already operational in the lower part of the temple, additional surveillance systems would be put in place at key points within a week.
The renewed focus on security comes after Malhotra’s link to the Bhagalpur district came to light. She had reportedly shared videos of her visit to Sultanganj on social media. The Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) has since ordered heightened security at the temple and assured full cooperation with central investigative agencies probing the espionage case.
“If the agency investigating Jyoti Malhotra requests any information, we will provide complete assistance,” said the SSP, underscoring the seriousness of the case.
Meanwhile, SHO Mrityunjay Kumar has issued strict directives to hotel operators in the area, highlighting that Sultanganj is a significant pilgrimage and tourist destination. Hotel owners have been instructed to install CCTV systems, employ trained security guards, verify guests’ identity documents, and report any suspicious activity to the local police station without delay.
A detailed security audit is currently underway. On Monday, a team led by SHO Mrityunjay Kumar, along with a dog squad, conducted an intensive search operation at the Ajgaivinath temple and nearby Ganga Ghat. DSP Chandra Bhushan also carried out a site inspection with the team.
The SSP has ordered a special security campaign to be conducted across various strategic locations. A report of the findings will be submitted to senior officials after the audit is complete, police confirmed.
