The Delhi Police has filed an FIR following the unauthorized circulation of a pre-print copy of former Chief of Army Staff Gen M M Naravane’s unpublished book, Four Stars of Destiny, on social media. Authorities confirmed that the book was being shared without the mandatory clearance from competent authorities, prompting a formal investigation by the Special Cell.
According to the police, a PDF copy of the book, reportedly prepared by Penguin Random House India Pvt Ltd, was found on several websites. Additionally, some online marketing platforms displayed the book cover as if it were already available for purchase. The police statement emphasized that necessary clearance for the publication of the book had not yet been obtained.
The controversy intensified last week when Congress leader Rahul Gandhi reportedly displayed a copy of the book in the Parliament complex. The incident disrupted the proceedings of the Lok Sabha, leading to the suspension of eight MPs for the remaining part of the ongoing Budget session. Rahul Gandhi criticized the government, alleging that Prime Minister Narendra Modi avoided the House to evade discussion on a 2020 standoff with China mentioned in the book.
Rahul Gandhi stated that the government had repeatedly prevented him from speaking on the topic, first claiming he could not quote a book, then a magazine, and later stalling discussions altogether. He emphasized that the book had indeed been published and that a copy was in possession of his party, highlighting what he described as obstruction in parliamentary proceedings.
The Special Cell will investigate the source of the PDF leak, its online circulation, and the platforms involved in promoting or selling the book cover. Authorities are also expected to examine potential breaches of copyright law, unauthorized distribution, and any security implications arising from the book’s content.
The leak has intensified political tensions, with Rahul Gandhi pointing out the government’s reluctance to allow debate on critical issues related to national security and international agreements, including the impact of recent US trade deals on Indian farmers. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to trace the leak and determine its full implications.
In summary, Delhi Police has taken action over the circulation of Gen M M Naravane’s unpublished book, Four Stars of Destiny, filing an FIR and launching an investigation. The leak has generated significant political debate and media attention, with opposition leaders criticizing government obstruction in Parliament and raising questions about transparency and accountability.