Naravane Memoir Leak Probe Focuses on International Circulation Before Publication

New Delhi: The investigation into the alleged circulation of a pre-print PDF version of former Indian Army Chief General M.M. Naravane’s unpublished memoir has taken an international turn, with authorities examining how the manuscript surfaced in multiple foreign jurisdictions before receiving official clearance in India.

The Delhi Police Special Cell, which has registered an FIR and invoked provisions related to criminal conspiracy, is probing the global digital trail of the manuscript. The book — still awaiting mandatory clearance from the Ministry of Defence — reportedly appeared online and in distribution channels abroad, raising concerns about unauthorised dissemination of unpublished material.

The book is available abroad. It’s published abroad. The Modi government is not allowing it to be published here.

: LoP Shri @RahulGandhi on Army Chief General Naravane’s book pic.twitter.com/xE9cNZkXIF

— Congress (@INCIndia) February 4, 2026

Distribution across multiple countries

Investigators are focusing on reports that the pre-print version was distributed or made available in several countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Australia. Preliminary findings suggest that the circulation went beyond isolated digital sharing, indicating possible organised channels through which the manuscript entered international markets.

Authorities are examining whether hosting platforms, web domains and intermediary networks played a role in the spread of the PDF. Early digital traces suggest the content may have first appeared on overseas-linked domains before spreading across other online platforms and messaging networks.

Entry into global markets before clearance

Officials involved in the probe believe the manuscript may have entered global digital and retail ecosystems before completing India’s defence-related vetting procedures. ISBN identifiers associated with leaked versions and listings on foreign online retail platforms are being analysed to determine how the title was processed or indexed within international publishing systems.

This sequence has strengthened suspicion among investigators that the circulation may have been deliberate rather than accidental, prompting scrutiny of both digital and institutional distribution channels.

Online circulation and copyright concerns

Authorities have confirmed that a typeset PDF version of the unpublished memoir was accessible on websites and shared through social media and messaging applications. In some instances, marketing platforms reportedly displayed the book cover and order listings despite the title not being officially released.

The publisher has maintained that the memoir — Four Stars of Destiny — has not been published or distributed, and that any copies circulating online constitute unauthorised and infringing material.

Expanding international probe

The Special Cell is now tracking overseas digital footprints, financial flows, and possible collaborators linked to the manuscript’s circulation. Investigators are analysing metadata, publishing-chain records and digital identifiers while seeking clarification from stakeholders connected to the publication process.

The case gained prominence after excerpts from the unreleased book were cited during a parliamentary debate, drawing attention to how unpublished material entered public circulation.

Ongoing inquiry

Authorities stress that the investigation remains underway and no final conclusions have been reached regarding responsibility for the leak. However, the emerging evidence points to a transnational pattern of distribution, making the case not merely a domestic copyright issue but one involving cross-border digital dissemination that investigators continue to map.