Former Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) chief A.S. Dulat unveiled his latest book The CM and the Spy at a launch event in Delhi, attracting prominent figures from the political, academic, and literary spheres. Known for his insights into India's intelligence landscape, Dulat’s newest work delves into the intersection of political leadership and covert operations.
Set against the backdrop of sensitive state politics and national security concerns, The CM and the Spy weaves a fictionalized account inspired by real events and personalities. The book offers a rare glimpse into the delicate relationship between chief ministers and intelligence agencies, examining how trust, communication, and strategy play pivotal roles in governance.
Addressing the gathering, Dulat said, “This book is not just about espionage—it’s about relationships, power dynamics, and the unseen threads that bind politics and intelligence. It’s a story of two worlds that rarely meet in public, but often collaborate behind the scenes.”
The launch event featured a panel discussion on the themes of the book, including national security, internal stability, and the evolving challenges facing intelligence officers in democratic societies. Experts noted that Dulat’s narrative brings a human perspective to a profession often shrouded in secrecy and speculation.
A.S. Dulat, who served as the head of RAW from 1999 to 2000 and later as a key advisor on Kashmir in the Prime Minister’s Office, has authored several books, including the widely discussed Kashmir: The Vajpayee Years and Spy Chronicles, co-written with former ISI chief Asad Durrani. His writing is often praised for its candid tone and balanced insights into India's internal security and geopolitical stance.
At the event, Dulat spoke candidly about the current state of intelligence services in India and stressed the need for more open dialogue between agencies and political leadership. He also touched upon the challenges posed by misinformation, technological disruption, and the politicization of intelligence.
The book has already garnered interest for its intriguing title and promises to be a significant addition to the literature on intelligence and governance in India.
The CM and the Spy is expected to resonate with readers interested in Indian politics, governance, and real-world espionage stories with a human angle. The event concluded with a book signing and an informal interaction between Dulat and the attendees.
