The Eastern Railway (ER) has issued a strict advisory urging bloggers and YouTubers to refrain from taking detailed photographs or videos of railway stations under its jurisdiction, citing national security concerns. This comes shortly after Haryana-based YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra was arrested for allegedly passing sensitive information to Pakistani intelligence. Authorities emphasized that many stations under ER serve as crucial connecting hubs, making them sensitive zones that require heightened security.
Eastern Railway Tightens Surveillance, Urges Bloggers to Halt Station Videography
An ER spokesperson stated that while restrictions on photography and videography at station premises have always existed, the current national security climate has prompted a reinforcement of these rules. Surveillance at key stations will now be significantly increased to prevent any unauthorized documentation.
The spokesperson noted that some content creators attempt to shoot video blogs at railway stations, disregarding existing regulations. This behaviour has raised alarms among railway officials. “Our request to bloggers and YouTubers is to not undertake such activities anymore. Security cannot be compromised,” he emphasized.
ER Reaffirms Media Restrictions Amid Security Concerns After YouTuber’s Arrest
The ER clarified that while accredited news media are allowed to take photos during specific events at stations, such privileges do not extend to the general public or social media influencers. The reiteration of these rules, officials say, is a necessary step amid heightened security alerts across the country.
Malhotra, who had uploaded blogs covering places like Sealdah station and the Dakshineswar temple, is now at the center of a national investigation. The ER’s renewed warning underscores the growing scrutiny over digital content creation at sensitive public locations in the interest of national safety.
Summary:
Eastern Railway has warned bloggers and YouTubers against filming or photographing stations, citing national security concerns. This follows the arrest of YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra for allegedly sharing sensitive data with Pakistani operatives. Authorities are increasing surveillance and reaffirming media restrictions to prevent misuse of content at sensitive railway locations.
