A controversy over former Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane’s yet-to-be-published memoir Four Stars of Destiny has intensified after alleged PDF copies surfaced online and political debates erupted in Parliament. As questions grew around the book’s authenticity and publication status, Naravane issued his first public reaction, backing his publisher, Penguin Random House India (PRHI), and endorsing its official clarification. The row has triggered a police probe, renewed discussions on military memoir approvals, and confusion among readers about how book publishing actually works.
Why Is MM Naravane’s Memoir Not Published Yet?
The memoir has not officially entered publication, according to the publisher. Penguin Random House India clarified that announcing a book or allowing pre-orders does not mean it has been released. The publishing house said the manuscript has not been printed, distributed, or made available to readers in any form. The controversy escalated because excerpts reportedly circulated online even though the book awaits clearance and final publication steps.
This is the status of the book. https://t.co/atLtwhJvl0
— Manoj Naravane (@ManojNaravane) February 10, 2026
Naravane shared the publisher’s statement on social media and wrote, “This is the status of the book.” His endorsement aimed to clear confusion over whether the memoir had already been released or leaked in full.
What Did Penguin Random House India Say On PDF Leak?
The publisher stated that it holds the exclusive rights to publish Four Stars of Destiny. It warned that any copies circulating online or offline amount to copyright infringement. Penguin Random House India emphasised that the book has not reached retail channels and that readers should treat unofficial copies as unauthorised material.
The company also released a “quick guide” explaining the stages of publishing. It highlighted that a book announcement simply signals plans, while pre-orders allow bookings before official release. The publisher said publication occurs only when a book becomes available for purchase through retail platforms.
Delhi Police Probe Illegal Circulation Of Naravane Memoir
Authorities in Delhi have begun investigating how alleged digital copies surfaced online. The issue gained political attention after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi cited excerpts from the memoir during a parliamentary debate, which intensified scrutiny over how an unpublished manuscript entered public circulation.
Police are examining whether individuals or online platforms violated copyright laws by distributing advance or unauthorised copies. The investigation remains ongoing as officials attempt to trace the source of the leak.
What Is ‘Four Stars of Destiny’ And Why Is It Controversial?
Naravane’s memoir reportedly covers key moments from his tenure as Army Chief, including sensitive military decisions and policy discussions. Because of its subject matter, the book requires official clearance before publication. The ongoing review process and political references to the manuscript have turned it into a major public controversy even before its release.
The publisher reiterated its commitment to transparency, stating that readers must understand the difference between announced, pre-ordered, and published books. It also warned that legal action could follow if unauthorised dissemination continues.
