Source India Today
New Delhi: The Delhi Police have registered a case in connection with the alleged leak of an unapproved book written by a former Chief of the Indian Army, titled Four Stars of Destiny. The action comes after concerns were raised over the circulation of the manuscript without mandatory clearance from the competent authorities.
According to officials, the book was released and circulated despite not receiving the required permissions, including security and legal vetting, which is mandatory for former senior military officers before publishing memoirs or books that may contain sensitive information. The matter was brought to the attention of law enforcement following a complaint highlighting potential violations of official secrecy norms.
Police sources said the FIR has been filed under relevant sections of the law to investigate how the manuscript was leaked, who was responsible for its circulation, and whether any classified or sensitive material was disclosed in the process. The investigation will also examine the role of publishers and other individuals involved in making the content public.
The Army has strict guidelines for serving and retired officers regarding publication of personal accounts, particularly those related to operational matters, strategic decision-making, or internal functioning of the armed forces. Any deviation from these rules is viewed seriously due to national security implications.
Officials have clarified that the case is currently focused on the unauthorised leak and publication process, and not on the personal views expressed in the book. Further action will depend on the findings of the investigation, police added.
The development has sparked renewed debate on the balance between freedom of expression and the need to safeguard sensitive information related to national security, especially when it involves former high-ranking military officials.
