‘Leaked Lies?’ Former Army Chief Rejects Claims, Opens Up on China Reality - Exclusive

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Delhi: Former Army Chief MM Naravane has firmly dismissed claims that he felt “abandoned” by the government during sensitive military developments, calling such interpretations a misreading of events and possibly based on unauthorised material. In a Times Now Exclusive interview on Thursday, Narava ne addressed the controversy surrounding his yet-to-be-cleared book, 'Four Stars of Destiny', asserting that it has neither been officially published nor accessed through legitimate means. He emphasised that any excerpts circulating in the public domain are likely from leaked or manipulated versions, urging that such content should not be given credence.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--GF5pK38a8

‘Book Not Cleared, Access Unauthorised’

Naravane clarified that the manuscript of his earlier book remains under review between the publisher, Penguin Random House India, and the Ministry of Defence and has not been officially cleared for publication.“The book has not been published in any form, print or digital. If anyone has access to it, that access is unauthorised,” he said, distancing himself from the controversy triggered by purported excerpts appearing in sections of the media.He added that the publishing process involves multiple stages, drafts, edits, and format changes. making it difficult to pinpoint exactly where the leak may have occurred.

Rejects ‘Isolation’ Narrative

Responding to political claims that he felt “alone” during key decisions, Naravane rejected the interpretation outright. “There is a difference between being given operational freedom and being isolated,” he said, underlining that military leadership is often entrusted with autonomy precisely because of the confidence reposed in it by the government.He explained that while decisions ultimately rest with the Army leadership, they are taken after extensive deliberations involving multiple stakeholders over time.“At the end of the day, it is a military operation. The ‘how’ is left to the military, while the ‘what’ comes from the political leadership,” he noted.

‘Do Not Politicise Armed Forces’

Expressing concern over the political storm surrounding the issue, Naravane cautioned against dragging the armed forces into partisan debates. “We are apolitical and would like to remain so. Raising non-issues and linking them to politics only drags the armed forces into unnecessary controversy,” he said.He stated that the Indian armed forces derive their professionalism from staying removed from political discourse, a principle he believes must be preserved.

On the Leak and Public Debate

Naravane refused to comment on specific quotes attributed to him in leaked versions, pointing out that unauthorised documents could be altered or taken out of context. “If someone can access such material, it can also be changed. I cannot verify those contents,” he said, reiterating that he himself has not seen a final printed copy of the book. While the controversy continues, Naravane indicated that he has moved on, focusing on his latest non-fiction work, The Curious and the Classified, which explores lesser-known military stories, myths and traditions across the Indian armed forces.He described the book as an attempt to shed light on fascinating but underreported aspects of military history, from naval incidents to unique Air Force traditions, while steering clear of sensitive operational disclosures.

On India-China Dynamics and Military Autonomy

Touching upon broader strategic issues, Naravane said that while India and China continue to have a boundary dispute, mechanisms exist to manage tensions on the ground. He emphasised that long-term resolution lies in sustained negotiations, adding that it is in both nations’ interest to stabilise ties.He also reiterated that operational autonomy remains a cornerstone of military functioning, enabled by political direction but executed by professionals on the ground.Naravane maintained that the controversy has had little personal impact on him, noting that he remains engaged in public speaking, mentoring youth and writing. “There are far more meaningful things to do than dwell on such issues,” he said, striking a composed note even as debate around the leaked material continues.