Publisher Issues Clarification on Naravane Memoir Publication Status
The publisher of former Indian Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane's memoir has issued a definitive statement, clarifying that no copies of the highly anticipated book have entered the publication process. This official clarification was released in direct response to recent developments involving law enforcement authorities.
Delhi Police Registers FIR Over Alleged Manuscript Circulation
The situation escalated when the Delhi Police formally registered a First Information Report (FIR) concerning the alleged illegal circulation of General Naravane's manuscript. According to police reports, the manuscript was being distributed through unauthorized digital channels and other formats without proper authorization from the publisher or the author.
The publisher's statement explicitly confirms that the manuscript has not progressed to the printing or distribution stages. This means that any physical or digital copies currently circulating in the public domain are unauthorized and potentially violate intellectual property rights.
Timeline of Events and Official Responses
The controversy emerged on February 9, 2026, when news broke about the police investigation. The publisher moved quickly to address the situation, releasing their clarification on the same day to prevent misinformation from spreading further.
The publisher emphasized that all proper publication protocols will be followed when the memoir is officially released. This includes standard industry practices for editing, design, printing, and distribution through authorized channels only.
Significance of the Memoir and Current Status
General Manoj Mukund Naravane served as the 28th Chief of the Army Staff of the Indian Army from December 31, 2019, to April 30, 2022. His tenure included significant events such as the India-China border standoff and various military reforms, making his memoir particularly noteworthy for military historians and the general public alike.
The publisher has not provided a revised timeline for when the memoir might officially enter publication. However, they have assured stakeholders that they are taking all necessary steps to protect the intellectual property and ensure the book reaches readers through legitimate means when ready.
This incident highlights the challenges publishers face in the digital age, where manuscripts can be vulnerable to unauthorized distribution before official release. The Delhi Police investigation continues as authorities work to identify the source of the illegal circulation and prevent further distribution of the unpublished material.
