Former Indian Army Chief General MM Naravane's memoir, titled “Four Stars Of Destiny”, is facing intense scrutiny from the Indian Army and the Ministry of Defence as it includes sensitive information regarding topics ranging from the 2020 Galwan valley clashes, controversial Agnipath recruitment scheme and revelations about the security situation in Ladakh.
The book’s publisher, Penguin Random House, has been directed not to share excerpts or soft copies until the review is complete, delaying its scheduled release this month.
The book contains details of General Naravane’s conversation with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh regarding the movement of Chinese troops in Ladakh in the year 2020. Excerpts also shed light upon the Agnipath scheme which culminated in a series of countrywide protests some time back, highlighting the Army’s initial stance on personnel recruitment.
According to snippets, Defence Minister Singh told General Naravane on August 31, 2020, amidst tensions with China, “Jo ucchit samjho woh karo ( Do whatever you deem is appropriate)”.
The book further revealed a series of high-level communications from that night between the Defence Minister, External Affairs Minister, National Security Advisor, and the Chief of Defence staff.
About the Agnipath scheme, General Naravane expressed his initial disagreement with the proposed starting salary of Rs. 20,000 per month, stating it was “not acceptable” for soldiers anticipated to sacrifice for the nation. The book claims that, based on his strong recommendation, the starting salary was later raised to Rs. 30,000 per month.
Some reports raised questions regarding the legality of publishing such information. While retired government servants are generally restricted from publishing information without prior permission, the Defence services are not explicitly blanketed under these rules.
In addition, the book touches upon the events of June 15, 2020, when 50 Indian soldiers were captured by China in the Galwan Valley clash. Strikingly, the incident received minimal coverage, and upon their release on June 18, there was no acknowledgement or mention by the Indian government.
A recent report divulged into the same, stating, “Indian govt gave no details about the clash at any briefing, also the PM didn’t go to receive the coffins of the martyrs as he did for those in Pulwama”
The controversy was further aggravated by allegations that Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not publicly address the clash, and his statements denying any intrusion by China were later edited out of official videos on YouTube. The opposition criticised the government for not providing a factual position on the clash contributing to unnecessary controversy.
The prime minister’s office claimed “Attempts are being made in some quarters to give a mischievous interpretation to remarks by the Prime Minister at the All-party meeting yesterday”
Inquiries and debates concerning the details within General Naravane’s memoir have already begun, meanwhile, an anticipation for additional clarification on these delicate issues is well expected among the masses.
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