Punjab Man Arrested for Sharing Army Secrets with Pakistan's ISI
Punjab Police arrested Gagandeep Singh from Tarn Taran for allegedly sharing sensitive information about Indian Army movements during "Operation Sindoor" with Pakistan's ISI. He was reportedly in contact with Pakistan-based Khalistani supporter Gopal Singh Chawla and received payments for espionage. A mobile phone containing classified data and details of over 20 ISI contacts was recovered. An FIR under the Official Secrets Act has been registered as investigations continue into the espionage network.
Unpacked:
Operation Sindoor was a high-impact, retaliatory Indian Army strike across the Line of Control (LoC) targeting terror-related sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. Launched on May 7, 2025, after the Pahalgam terror attack, it was significant for its calculated execution, precision, and demonstration of India's cross-border military capabilities.
Gopal Singh Chawla is a Pakistan-based Khalistani supporter known for advocating separatist causes linked to the Khalistan movement. He has connections with ISI and has been accused by Indian authorities of facilitating anti-India activities, including supporting espionage networks and terror groups.
The Official Secrets Act is an Indian law that criminalizes the disclosure of sensitive government or military information. Violations can lead to imprisonment (up to 14 years) and heavy fines, especially if the leak endangers national security or assists foreign adversaries.
Espionage cases involving the ISI and Indian nationals have recurred over the years, especially near sensitive border areas. Indian authorities regularly report attempts by ISI to recruit informants for intelligence on military movements, with several arrests and prosecutions made in recent years.