Controversial Book "Four Stars of Destiny": Gen Naravane's Memoir Sparks Political Uproar - Punjabi News

Published on: 05 Feb 2026 at 04:51 AM

Controversial Book “Four Stars of Destiny”: Gen Naravane’s Memoir Sparks Political Uproar

Published by: Gill Bikram

Controversial Book “Four Stars of Destiny”: Gen Naravane’s Memoir Sparks Political Uproar

Former Army Chief’s Unpublished Autobiography Ignites Debate on China Policy and National Security

New Delhi, February 5, 2026: Former Indian Army Chief General M.M. Naravane’s unpublished memoir, “Four Stars of Destiny,” has become the epicenter of national politics. From Parliament to streets, heated debates rage over its alleged revelations. While the opposition uses it to attack the government’s China policy, the government has blocked its publication.

An Unexpected Writing Journey
General Naravane revealed he never initially planned to write a memoir. It all began in March 2023 at the launch of a book on the late General Bipin Rawat. Jokingly, he asked publishers Penguin why they weren’t printing his book. Their enthusiasm prompted him to start writing, bringing him immense mental satisfaction.

Publication Delays and National Security Concerns
The book has been pending Defense Ministry clearance since 2023. Expressing frustration over the delay, Naravane called 15 months for review excessive. Yet, he acknowledged that a former Army Chief’s writings could impact national security and foreign relations, making scrutiny essential. He likened the manuscript to “aged wine,” growing more valuable with time.

Parliamentary Storm: Rahul Gandhi vs. Government
Tensions peaked when Rahul Gandhi cited excerpts in the Lok Sabha. He claimed that during the 2020 China border standoff, as Chinese tanks advanced, Prime Minister Modi told the Army Chief, “Do what you think is right,” instead of issuing clear orders—signaling a shirking of responsibility.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh dismissed these as factually incorrect. The government argues referencing an unpublished book violates parliamentary rules and national interests.

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