Delhi Police Register Case Over Circulation of Ex-Army Chief General Naravane’s Unpublished Book
Delhi Police have initiated legal action after an unpublished manuscript authored by former Chief of Army Staff General Manoj Mukund Naravane surfaced in the public domain. The circulation of the unreleased book — reportedly shared in digital format — has raised serious concerns relating to national security protocols, publishing clearance, and unauthorized distribution.
Unreleased Memoir Triggers Investigation
The controversy centres around General Naravane’s memoir, “Four Stars of Destiny,” which documents his military journey, operational experiences, and leadership tenure in the Indian Army.
Authorities took cognisance after excerpts and PDF copies of the unpublished manuscript began circulating across social media platforms and online networks, despite the book not being officially released or cleared for publication.
Mandatory Defence Clearance Under Spotlight
Publications authored by serving or former senior defence officials must undergo a mandatory review process before release. This scrutiny ensures that no classified information, operational details, or sensitive strategic insights are disclosed.
Officials indicated that General Naravane’s book had not yet completed this clearance process, making its circulation a potential violation of defence publication norms.
FIR Filed by Delhi Police Special Cell
Given the sensitive nature of the matter, the Delhi Police Special Cell — which handles high-profile and national security-linked cases — registered an FIR to probe the leak.
Investigators are examining how the unpublished manuscript entered the public domain, who first shared it, and whether any individuals or entities were involved in its digital distribution.
Authorities are also tracking online platforms where the book’s content or cover images were displayed or promoted.
Political Reactions Add Fuel to Row
The issue escalated after portions of the unpublished memoir were cited in political debates. Some opposition leaders referenced alleged excerpts to question the government’s handling of national security matters, including border tensions.
This triggered sharp political exchanges, with ruling party representatives objecting to the use of unverified and uncleared material in public discourse.
Concerns Over National Security
Security experts stress that premature disclosure of defence memoirs can carry risks. Even retrospective accounts may contain operational references, tactical assessments, or strategic observations that require vetting before public release.
Authorities are therefore treating the circulation as a serious breach, given its potential implications for institutional confidentiality.
Digital Leak Under Scanner
The investigation is focusing heavily on the digital trail — including file origins, social media shares, and messaging platform circulation.
Forensic analysis may be used to determine whether the leak occurred internally, through publishing channels, or via unauthorized third-party access.
Probe Continues
Delhi Police have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, with multiple angles under examination — including copyright violations, data leaks, and breaches of official secrecy norms.
Further action will depend on the findings regarding responsibility and intent behind the circulation.
The case highlights the fine balance between public interest, political debate, and national security — especially when unpublished military narratives surface without authorization.
