Naravane Memoir Row Raises Questions Over “Unpublished” Book Copy

The controversy surrounding former Army Chief General MM Naravane’s memoir Four Stars of Destiny continues to deepen, as unanswered questions persist over how a physical copy surfaced despite official claims that the book has not been approved for publication.

The issue first gained national attention after Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi referenced the memoir in Parliament and was later seen holding a hardbound copy within the Parliament complex. Both the government and the publisher, Penguin Random House India, had earlier stated that the manuscript had not been cleared by the Ministry of Defence (MoD), making the existence of a printed version puzzling.

Given that defence-related writings by former service chiefs require official clearance before publication, the appearance of a printed copy has triggered concerns about confidentiality protocols and possible leaks.

Publisher denial deepens mystery

Penguin Random House India has stated that the manuscript remains under review and has not been printed or distributed. General Naravane also supported this position, confirming that the book had not yet received the required clearance.

However, these assurances have not resolved the central question: how did a physical copy emerge?

Delhi Police have reportedly registered a case relating to the unauthorised circulation of the manuscript and potential leakage of sensitive material. Investigators are focusing on the digital distribution of the text, including claims that copies surfaced in international markets and online platforms before approval.

Rahul Gandhi later said the book was available abroad but did not disclose the source of his copy.

Key questions remain unanswered

The controversy has raised several pressing questions:

• How did a printed copy reach a public figure if the publisher did not print the book?

• How were listings or pre-orders available internationally without MoD clearance?

• When was the manuscript submitted for official approval?

• Was there a breach of publishing safeguards or an internal leak?

Despite repeated outreach attempts by media organisations, the publisher has not issued further clarification.

Why the memoir matters

Four Stars of Destiny reportedly covers General Naravane’s tenure from 2019 to 2022, including sensitive topics such as the Galwan Valley clash with China, the Rechin La standoff, and military reforms including the Agnipath scheme.

The potential circulation of unapproved content relating to defence strategy raises national security concerns and highlights the importance of strict confidentiality protocols in defence-related publications.

Ongoing investigation and wider implications

Authorities are currently tracing digital circulation trails and examining whether unauthorised copies were shared or leaked. The incident has also sparked debate about the responsibilities of publishers in safeguarding sensitive manuscripts.

In high-profile memoirs involving national security matters, pre-publication confidentiality is considered critical. If unauthorised distribution occurred, it could point to systemic lapses or breaches of trust.

As the investigation continues, clarity on how the book surfaced — and who is responsible — remains central to resolving the controversy.