The book released for sale on overseas online platforms without the Ministry of Defence’s permission !

Case of the unpublished book ‘Four Stars of Destiny’ by former Army Chief General Mukund Naravane

Rahul Gandhi showing General Mukund Narwane and his book

New Delhi – A controversy has erupted over the unpublished book “Four Stars of Destiny” by former Indian Army Chief General Mukund Naravane. It is being reported that preliminary findings in the Delhi Police investigation suggest that the book may have been deliberately leaked. The book was allegedly released without the mandatory approval of the Ministry of Defence and first appeared for sale on online platforms in Canada, Australia, Germany, and the United States, after which it began surfacing elsewhere. Initial sales are also said to have occurred in these countries.

Controversy over Four Stars of Destiny by former Army Chief Manoj Naravane.

The book was reportedly published and listed for sale on international online platforms without the Ministry of Defence’s permission – Delhi Police

Serious questions arise over protocol, authorisation,… https://t.co/SAvSqNQ6ye pic.twitter.com/TCdXvhQx1p

— Sanatan Prabhat (@SanatanPrabhat) February 13, 2026

On the other hand, Penguin Random House India issued a statement clarifying that the book has not been published in any form. It noted that the publishing rights remain with Penguin. The publisher explained that the announced title, pre-order listings, and a published book are different stages, and a book is considered published only after it becomes available through retail channels. It warned that no printed or digital copy has been officially released and that any material currently circulating would be treated as copyright infringement.

Reasons for the controversy

The dispute over General Naravane’s book began in Parliament when Rahul Gandhi referred to the contents of the unpublished manuscript and displayed a copy in the Lok Sabha. The ruling party strongly objected, questioning how an unpublished manuscript was obtained and how its contents were cited in the House. Subsequently, a case was registered in connection with the matter.

According to Gandhi, the book contains facts about the 2020 India–China confrontation along the Ladakh border that could be inconvenient for the government. He alleged that during the episode, the Modi government left General Naravane isolated and placed the full responsibility on him to decide whether to open fire on Chinese troops.