Published on: 09 Feb, 2026 21:26 IST
Delhi Police have registered an FIR regarding the unauthorized circulation of an unpublished memoir by former Chief of Army Staff General M.M. Naravane on social media and online platforms.
The book, titled Four Stars of Destiny, is a memoir by General Naravane, who served as Army Chief from December 31, 2019, to April 30, 2022. It remains unpublished as it awaits mandatory clearance from the Ministry of Defence due to sensitive content, including details about the 2020 India-China military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh and references to the Agnipath scheme.
The controversy gained momentum when Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, cited excerpts from the unpublished book in Parliament. He accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of failing to fulfill his responsibilities during the 2020 Ladakh clashes. Gandhi reportedly quoted passages claiming no clear directives were issued from the top leadership when Chinese forces advanced.
The Delhi Police’s Special Cell took cognizance of social media posts, news reports, and claims that a pre-print PDF version of the book was being shared widely without required government approval. Some platforms even displayed the book cover as if it were available for sale. An official police statement confirmed the FIR was filed to investigate the alleged leak or breach of this yet-to-be-approved publication.
Senior military officials, including retired ones, are bound by the Official Secrets Act and related regulations that prohibit the disclosure of classified information without prior clearance, even after retirement. Violations can lead to legal action and potential withholding of pension benefits under the CCS (Pension) Rules.
The 2020 LAC standoff, particularly the violent Galwan Valley clash on June 15, 2020, resulted in the deaths of 20 Indian soldiers (with reported casualties on the Chinese side as well) and marked one of the deadliest confrontations in decades. Under General Naravane’s leadership, the Indian Army engaged in multiple rounds of talks, leading to phased disengagements. While the situation has seen a relative thaw through agreements, significant military deployments continue on both sides.
No official statements have been issued yet by the author, publisher, or the Defence Ministry regarding the book’s status or the leak. The FIR highlights concerns over potential national security implications and the risk of escalating tensions along the LAC if sensitive details are made public prematurely. The investigation is ongoing.