Consider the following statements:1. Bengal Gazette was the first New...
In 1780, James Augustus Hickey published the first newspaper in India entitled The Bengal Gazette or Calcutta General Advertiser. Hickey’s press was seized within two years, owing to his outspoken criticism of government officials.
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Consider the following statements:1. Bengal Gazette was the first New...
Bengal Gazette: The First Newspaper in India
Introduction:
The Bengal Gazette is widely regarded as the first newspaper to be published in India. It played a significant role in the development of journalism in the country. Let us analyze the given statements and determine their accuracy.
Statement 1: Bengal Gazette was the first Newspaper to be published in India.
The statement is correct.
- The Bengal Gazette, also known as the Calcutta General Advertiser, was launched by James Augustus Hickey in 1780.
- It was a weekly newspaper that covered a wide range of topics, including political, social, and economic issues.
- Hickey, an Irishman, was the editor and publisher of the newspaper. He aimed to provide a platform for free expression and to highlight the concerns of the common people.
Statement 2: The newspaper was started by East India Company and was highly appreciative of the efforts taken by company officials in their handling of Political affairs of the Company in India.
The statement is incorrect.
- The newspaper was not started by the East India Company. It was an independent venture by James Augustus Hickey.
- The Bengal Gazette was known for its critical stance towards the British East India Company and its officials.
- Hickey often published articles that exposed corruption, criticized the policies of the Company, and advocated for the rights of the Indian people.
- His bold and outspoken journalism earned him both praise and criticism, but it certainly did not align with the interests of the Company.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the first statement is correct, while the second statement is incorrect. The Bengal Gazette holds the distinction of being the first newspaper in India and played a significant role in shaping the journalistic landscape of the country.
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