‘Book Not Published’: MM Naravane's Memoir Publisher Reacts After Delhi Police's FIR

Penguin Random House India on Monday issued a statement clarifying that the memoir of former Indian Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane, ‘Four Stars of Destiny‘, has not been published, following a Delhi Police FIR over the alleged circulation of the book online.

The publisher said it holds the sole publishing rights for the memoir and stressed that no copies—printed, digital, or otherwise—have been released to the public.

“We wish to make it clear that the book has not gone into publication. No copies of the book – in print or digital form – have been published, distributed, sold, or otherwise made available to the public by Penguin Random House India,” the statement said.

Statement from the publisher. pic.twitter.com/pksacg3EeT

— Penguin

India (@PenguinIndia) February 9, 2026

It added, “Any copies of the book currently in circulation, in whole or in part, whether in print, digital, PDF, or any other format, online or offline, on any platform, constitutes an infringement of PRHI’s copyright and must immediately be ceased.”

The publisher also said it would pursue all legal remedies available against unauthorised dissemination. “Penguin Random House India shall be exercising remedies available in law against the illegal and unauthorised dissemination of the book. This statement is being issued to place the publisher’s position on record,” it added.

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The FIR comes after reports emerged that a pre-publication version of ‘Four Stars of Destiny‘ was circulating online without the mandatory clearances. Delhi Police said they acted after information surfaced on social media and news forums suggesting the book was being shared before official approval.

During verification, investigators found a PDF version of a typeset book with the same title available on certain websites. Some online platforms were also displaying the finished book cover as if it were available for purchase.

The memoir, written by General Naravane, who served as the 28th Chief of Army Staff from 31 December 2019 to 30 April 2022, is expected to cover his nearly four-decade-long career, from Second Lieutenant to Army Chief.

It reportedly offers insights into key moments, including India’s most serious military standoff with China since 1962.