BJP Targets Rahul Gandhi Over Unpublished Naravane Memoir Row

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Wednesday intensified its criticism of Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi over the dispute surrounding the unpublished memoir of former Army Chief General (Retd) Manoj Mukund Naravane.

BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh alleged that Rahul Gandhi was misleading the country for ‘cheap popularity’ and demanded a public apology. He claimed that both the author and the publisher had clearly stated that they had not published the book, and accused the Congress leader of spreading misinformation.

BJP Leaders Question Claims Over Memoir

BJP MP Damodar Agrawal said the matter was ‘very clear’, stating that the book had not been published and that the Defence Minister had already clarified the position in the House. He further added that if anyone insisted otherwise, they should confirm that they have published the book, after which officials would take action in accordance with the law.

Party spokesperson CR Kesavan also criticised the Congress, alleging that the former Army chief exposed Rahul Gandhi’s claims when he reiterated that the publisher has not released the book in any format.

On the other hand, CPI(M) MP Amra Ram questioned the government’s handling of the issue, saying the facts should be verified directly with General Naravane. He criticised what he described as the government’s reluctance to allow the Leader of the Opposition to speak in Parliament.

Drawing from his legislative experience, Ram said that opposition leaders should have adequate opportunity to raise issues and present their views without restrictions.

General Naravane and Publisher Clarify Position

More than a week after the controversy surfaced, General (Retd) Manoj Mukund Naravane publicly addressed the matter and stated that his publisher has not released Four Stars of Destiny in print or digital format.

Penguin Random House India reiterated that it holds exclusive publishing rights to the manuscript.

The publisher confirmed that it has not printed, distributed or made any authorised copies available.

The controversy has triggered heated exchanges in Parliament and further widened the political divide between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress.

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