Top News

BookLeak – The Delhi Police Special Cell has approached Penguin Random House India for an explanation regarding the reported circulation of an unreleased memoir written by former Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane.

Notice Issued to Publishing House

On Wednesday, officials confirmed that the Special Cell served a formal notice to the publishing house, asking it to clarify how portions of the manuscript allegedly surfaced before its official publication. According to senior officers familiar with the development, investigators have sought detailed responses to a series of questions as part of an ongoing inquiry.

The police action comes amid rising debate over the status of the book and claims that unauthorised copies — including digital files — were shared across various platforms. Authorities are examining whether there was any breach in the handling of the manuscript prior to its scheduled release.

FIR Registered Over Alleged Unauthorised Circulation

The memoir at the centre of the controversy, titled Four Stars of Destiny, has not yet been formally launched. However, allegations that its content was accessed and distributed without approval prompted the registration of a First Information Report. Officials indicated that the case includes provisions linked to criminal conspiracy and unauthorised dissemination of copyrighted material.

Investigators are working to determine how the alleged leak occurred and whether any internal or external actors played a role in the circulation of the text. The Special Cell, which handles sensitive and high-profile matters, is leading the probe.

Political Debate Adds to Controversy

The issue gained national attention after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi referred to what were described as excerpts from the memoir during proceedings in Parliament. The reference sparked strong objections from members of the Bharatiya Janata Party and several Union ministers, who argued that quoting from an unpublished and unauthenticated manuscript was inappropriate.

Following the objections, the Speaker ruled that excerpts from an unpublished book could not be cited in the House, stating that the material had not been officially verified or released. The ruling brought procedural clarity but did little to quell the broader political dispute that followed.

Publisher and Author Respond

Penguin Random House India has publicly maintained that the memoir remains unreleased and is currently awaiting required clearances. The publisher cautioned that any PDFs or printed copies circulating in the public domain would constitute copyright infringement.

General Naravane has also clarified that his book has not yet been officially published. He has not commented on the specifics of the investigation but reiterated that the memoir is still pending release.

Investigation Continues

Officials said the publishing house has been asked to fully cooperate and provide comprehensive replies to the queries outlined in the notice. The police are expected to review technical evidence, including digital trails, to assess how the manuscript may have been accessed or distributed.

The case highlights the legal and procedural complexities surrounding unpublished works, particularly when they intersect with public discourse and political debate. Authorities have indicated that further action will depend on the findings of the ongoing investigation.

As of now, no arrests have been reported, and the probe remains at a preliminary stage. The Special Cell’s inquiry aims to establish the facts behind the alleged leak and ensure accountability if any violation of law is confirmed.