Bengal Gazette, The the first Indian newspaper. While inaugurating the Bengal Gazette in 1780, James Augustus Hicky, its founding editor, announced that the motto of his paper would be to report objectively and impartially the affairs of the country. He tried to remain true to his promise.

But the paper lasted only for two years. Hicky, a dauntless journalist, made persistent attacks on the corruption and misgovernance of the fort william authorities. Through his paper he exposed many of the oppressive policies of warren hastings and the company civilians. Hicky's conduct was found to be prejudicial to the interest of the company and the British nation. His permit to stay in Bengal was cancelled and he was asked to leave India immediately. Hicky wound up his paper and left India in 1782. [Sirajul Islam]